Sunday, August 15, 2010

Family Creed

Chad and I went on a marriage retreat over a year ago (it was nice - here's the info). One of the things that stuck with me was the value of creating a Family Creed. The couple presenting that session had an example of their family's creed. They tied it to the bible and I remember thinking how much I wanted one. A set of principles or beliefs that we can go back to in times of 'confusion' (meaning anytime ownership of a toy is called into question or an insult launches a thousand ships).

Interestingly, wanting a family creed is quite a different thing than having one. Or even starting one. I thought about it when we got home, and after realizing that I didn't have a clue where to begin, I let it fall to the back of my mind which is the equivalent of solitary confinement for ideas - never to see the light of day.

Here's the great part - sometimes God really does just drop a gift into your lap. Nicely packaged with a bow. I was listening to a message by Steve Langford on Ephesians 4:21 - 5:2 and there it was embedded in the scripture. My family's creed. It's a beautiful text and it is perfect in its completeness. All I had to do was translate it into kid-friendly language. Thank you, God.