Is family turmoil the cause of problems in society? We know that school-aged children are highly affected by their family environment. The problems start showing early, as many kindergarten teachers can quickly identify which students have bad home situations. It seems like today it’s worse than ever. More families are broken, there are more single parents, but what is it about a stable family that can help society?

This week, we fell into family conflict. It happens in all families, but I know that when tempers disperse, that it will be alright in the end. We’ll forgive each other and carry on – maybe even a bit wiser. I’ve been blessed with a great family, so I can only imagine what it would be like to grow up without one – to have my earliest mistakes be unforgiven, to not have someone to depend on when it gets tough. After hearing Pastor Zedick’s sermon on family and thinking about it, I’ve concluded that strong families are important because they introduce us to the concept of life with God. It’s not only biological families. Church families are just as important. It’s one of the reasons that we love Cedar Fork – because it feels like a family.

Now that I’m a mother, I understand the importance of showing grace and love to my husband and children. It creates a peaceful home where my family can thrive, and I believe that is what God intends. Your family will always be your family, and as soon as someone drops arms, hearts are healed. I think that’s the best example of the unconditional love that God has for us. As soon as we open ourselves to God, he’s ready to receive us – with open arms.