Sundays typically have routines for many of us. In our family it consists of going to church, going to lunch and then if all the grocery shopping and homework is done, spending time as a family. During the Shared Faith series, this routine took on a new and added dimension. While our previous lunch conversation often consisted of what each of us heard or learned during church, it was more a “show and tell” than an in depth discussion. However, as our entire family went through this teaching together, our conversations as a family were able to go deeper. We ended up actually discussing the concepts and sharing our observations and questions in more meaningful ways than we had previously since we were all starting from the same basic message. The conversations were rich due to differences in our perspectives, stages in life and the way in which the original message was shared. In one particular conversation about the Trinity, we all agreed that our middle school son came out with the best example, yet we all agreed that the mystery of God was central to who He is, and something that could never be completely understood.
This time also gave us an opportunity to really explore and examine our foundational beliefs. As Christians this is critical as we strive to live sacrificial lives of witness and service that are modeled after Jesus. In addition, as our children transition from an inherited faith to a personal faith, Our Shared Faith allowed a framework for family discussion, devotion and reflection not only on Sundays but throughout the week. As we processed as a family, and a couple with our good friends, and as the kids discussed in their Sunday small groups or Wednesday night opportunities, Shared Faith has allowed us to more fully embrace what it means to be part of this unexpected family.
If you missed the Shared Faith series, it’s not too late. Visit our resource page for more information http:/sharedfaith.lakeave.org.