Devotion #6: Family Gathering

Family gatherings have a special place in my heart. I love getting together, whether it is for a holiday, a celebration of a birthday, or just time spent over dinner. Purposing time to spend together brings a closeness and bond that is shared with family. Whenever we approach the holidays, I notice an abundance of people expressing, “I hope you get to spend time with family, enjoy your loved ones this season, and take some time to spend with those that you love.” What is heartbreaking is the assumption that everyone has the same family dynamic. Whether it is through loss, separation, or distance in miles, for some, simply getting together is not an option. As human beings, we all have an emptiness that can only be filled by our Father. 

The Good News is that we have a God who has prepared a place for us in His family. Ephesians 1:5 says, “He predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will.” When we accept Christ as our Savior, we are then heirs, adopted by our Heavenly Father. Romans 8:16-17 says, “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” How amazing is it that God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus, His Son? Not only are we part of His Family, but we have all the benefits that go along with it. We have a Father who is there to protect, provide, and care for us that loves us unconditionally. Also, through Christ, we have the assurance of eternal life. 

Sunday mornings are a time of gathering together to worship and glorify God. It is a time for families to attend church together but also a time for the saints (His children) to come together. Sometimes, I stand in awe as I look across the auditorium and know that I am fellow heirs with those in attendance who have come to know Christ as their Savior. I am thankful for the time that we, as His children, can gather as a family, spending time worshiping and praising our Father.