The role of the church in the world. The hands and feet of Jesus. The Gospel in action. Love is a verb. If you have spent any time around a Christian church I am sure you have heard these phrases. These are good healthy biblical notions, right? When we feel that we have personally been a part of fulfilling one of these ideals, it feels good, doesn’t it? But what are the deeper implications of this notion of service?

I know a family who has 10 children. They had 3 biological kids, then adopted identical triplet infants with significant special needs. While the mom was pregnant with a child who the doctors said would not live through birth, this couple was in the midst of adopting twins from another country. Their son was born with a life threatening muscular disease and many complications. Because of theirknowledge of treating his illness, and their understanding of the Gospel, they adopted a toddler from yet a different country who has the same illness as their youngest son. They wanted both boys to have community. They did not get bogged down with the fear of medical bills, the chaos of the 9 other children, the mortgage, the groceries, or the gripping fear of losing either or both of their youngest boys. They pursued caring for these children out of “loose and porous boundaries . . . a sense of adventure and a willingness to welcome the unknownand to entertain the unmanageable. (They) let down their guard (and) neighbors entered their home as though they belong there.” (David Matzo McCarthy)

This! This is who we are called to be as Christian families. You may not be called to adopt; the manifestation of His love in your life may not have anything to do with children at all. It is the openness that is not to be missed here. Our marriages are not our own, they are His. Our families are not our own, they are His. Our household is not our own. It is His. Who is your household?
“You are the salt of the Earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? You are the light of the world. In the same way let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matt 5:13,14, 16
Seek Him. Pursue Him. He will help you reimagine relationships.