We have just concluded (at church) a series on the state of the family called, “Families in Crisis” conducted by Dr. Epi Rodriquez and his lovely wife, Pat. The understated truth is, as goes the family so goes the community, and nation. The values held by many families today seem to stem from the schools of Hollywood, and the Big Screen. However, the trouble with that concept (is Hollywood responsible?) is that the Silver Screen is only an excuse for the true condition of the human heart. Even if, you may not be an avid Bible fan, the following will speak truth to your heart:
Scripture teaches, Proverbs 14:34 “Doing what is right makes a nation great, but sin (wrong doing) will bring disgrace to any people” New Century Version.
Can we take a moment to glean through history, even our individual lives and reflect on the times when we chose to do the right thing? Doing what’s right does not always lend to great riches, but does leave us feeling proud, and dignified. People may not like you for doing the right, but they learn to respect you, even if, secretly. Conversely, when we do wrong, or even seem to, the would-be-critiques are like hawks waiting to pounce and denounce our shame. Doing the right may not always engender neighborhood togetherness, but your neighbor will always know where their children would be safe in an emergency – your home. They may not invite you to their parties, but that may not be because they don’t love you, but because they understand your Christian values are above what might be offered at the party.
Here are a few things to ponder:
Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder.
—George Washington
• I would rather fail in a cause that someday will triumph than to win in a cause that I know someday will fail.
—Woodrow Wilson
• Character is a victory, not a gift.
—Malay Proverb
• The measure of a man’s real character is what he would do, if he knew he would never be found out.
—Macaulay
The measure of our nation begins with our families, and the commitment to excellence in each individual within that unit. What are some of the things we can do to ensure high family morals and values? Turn to this page for some great insights in our next Pastor’s Perspective.
In the mean time ponder this:
2 Corinthians 3: 18 – “So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image”
—New Living Translation.
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Tan, Paul Lee: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations: A Treasury of Illustrations, Anecdotes, Facts and Quotations for Pastors, Teachers and Christian Workers. Garland TX : Bible Communications, 1996, c1979