Advent Challenge Day 12

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Children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or husband's will, but born of God
John 1:13

Fake Christmas Family from Google Images

  
In the lead up to Christmas, I find myself having lots of conversations with people about how they dread Christmas because it highlights the trickiness of family dynamics.  We are made to feel that we should be having quality family time together, yet for many of us, being forced together is like ripping open a painful wound on an annual basis. 

In yesterday's verse we were told that if we believe in Jesus' name we will be given the right to be called the children of God.  We're in God's family.  We've been adopted and made one of his. A few years ago friends of ours adopted a little boy.  The first time I heard this little boy call my friend 'Mum' I realised - yep, he really is one of their children.  He has a new surname, a new place in the world.  

By becoming one of God's children we have a new identity.  One not shaped by our messy or disappointing family.  

We've been looking at Romans this term at church. This verse from Romans 8 reminds us what we have been given by being brought into God's family.  

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.  The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.  And by him we cry, "Abba, Father".  The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.  Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. 
Romans 8:14-17.


How will being a part of God's family help you as you navigate the ups and downs of the Christmas period with your family this year?

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