There once lived a woman who loved others so well that her legacy has impacted generations. Mother Teresa once wrote, “People who love each other fully and truly are the happiest people in the world. They may have little, they may have nothing, but they are happy people. Everything depends on how we love one another.” This remarkable woman modelled her life after one greater than herself, Jesus.
Jesus was once asked what the greatest commandment was. He responded, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and most important commandment. The second most important commandment is like this one. And it is, “Love others as much as you love yourself.” Matt. 12: 37-39
It makes sense, as Christian parents, that we teach our children the importance of loving God and loving others. Putting God’s love into practice through simple family practices is the surest way to show children the power of God’s love at work.
Here are five ways your family can share the love of Jesus with others.
1. Teach your children the importance of courtesy.
Courtesy is defined as showing politeness in one’s attitude and behaviour toward others. When children understand the importance of sensitivity to other’s needs, they are learning the act of selfless love. Model courtesy in and outside of your home and encourage your children to do the same.
Courtesy looks like showing respect for others, apologizing when you have done something wrong, using good manners (saying please, thank you), not embarrassing others, being honest, respecting elders (holding open doors, engaging in appropriate conversation), good table manners and respecting others property. Paying attention to the simple courtesies of life is an example of God’s love.
2. Find out the need of another family/friend and meet that need.
For most of my early childhood I lived in a single parent home. My mother was the sole caregiver and provider for our home and I remember one time coming home and finding bags of groceries sitting at our doorstep. We never knew where this generous gift came from but seeing this incredible act of kindness left an impression on me that we were loved and not forgotten.
When you and your family see a need (it doesn’t have to be big), take the opportunity to express God’s love by responding to it. It could be as simple as cutting a neighbours lawn when they are recovering from a surgery or prepping a meal for a family going through financial difficulties. Involving your children in these simple acts will leave a lasting impression.
3. Support an outreach mission and have your family get involved.
There are many ways to support local and international ministries. Collect donations for the local foodbank. Raise money for an organization that your family is passionate about.
Here are some Alliance Initiatives to consider supporting:
- International Workers: https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/
- Alliance Projects/Funds: https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/
- Justice and Compassion Funds: https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/
- Canadian New Ministry Ventures: https://thealliancecanada.ca/product-category/international-workers/
4. Write cards, draw artwork or create care packages for the local seniors/retirement community.
Statistics show that seniors living in care facilities experience higher rates of severe loneliness than those older people living in community-dwelling populations. Bring joy to their day but showing them that they are loved and not forgotten.
5. Begin a prayer journal with your children.
There is nothing more exciting than seeing God at work through the power of prayer.Create a daily routine of praying together by writing down the prayer requests of those you love and pray as a family daily for those needs. Celebrate God’s answer to those prayers. Here is a great family prayer journal to get you started: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/737157744/our-family-prayer-journal
About the Author: stephanie holmberg
Stephanie is a wife, mother, pastor, and friend who is passionate about seeing people live authentic, purpose-filled lives. When not working alongside her amazing kidmin team, you will find her at home spending time with her family, snuggling her furry friend Milo, or out exploring all the amazing places Edmonton has to offer.