Though They Forsake Me, the Lord Will Receive Me

Though They Forsake Me, the Lord Will Receive Me

Family can be both a gift and a source of challenge, providing love and support, but also testing patience and understanding. It is a complex bond that shapes our lives in profound ways. Love within a family does not always mean complete agreement; if there is one thing consistent across any group of people, it is disagreement. What about when we make decisions guided by prayer and conviction, but our family does not share the same faith? What about when advice is not heeded or expectations are not met? Tension increases, and this leads to emotional distress. Nonetheless, even amid this confusion and pain, an understanding of what true grace entails emerges—because your faith is not dependent on someone else’s experience or knowledge. Jesus never promised that relationships would be simple, scripture says, in Luke 12:51-53, Jesus says, “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on, there will be five in one family, divided against each other, three against two, and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother…” Your family may not always approve of the path you choose, but when the path you choose is narrow and leads you to Christ, you are on the right path. Jesus also calls us to love one another. This includes family, even those who disagree with us. Love must always be chosen, prayers must be offered, and kind words should always be spoken, even when not reciprocated. Treating our family with love and care, even when that love isn't returned, is the Christlike thing to do. It is not weakness; it is strength rooted in faith because showing kindness and patience, especially in challenging times, reflects our commitment to embodying Christ's teachings and demonstrates the depth of our compassion and character.(Psalm 27:10)