Family Value

April 08.17

Many circumstance remind us of the unequaled value of family. This week was no exception with the very happy arrival of baby Oliver - our first grandson! When Erica texted us to ask if we were at home together, our hearts began to throb as we waited for the video call. Sure enough, the phone screen revealed a big baby boy snuggling his mama! The glow on Erica’s face and the sound of Jeff’s voice reflected again the amazing love of life’s greatest gift – the miracle of welcoming a child. We quickly remembered the same joy that came on Nov. 12, 2014 when Anna-Lynne was born. We immediately gave thanks to God that a healthy baby was here (Oliver Morris Harry) and everyone was doing well. We cried tears of joy and admitted our deep longing to be a few miles closer to hold this precious life in our arms.  Morris’s heart grew a few more inches when Erica and Jeff announced that Oliver’s name was including his. J There is no question - we value our family as our greatest earthly treasure - our children, our son-in-law, our grandchildren as well as siblings and their families, aunts & uncles & cousins, and extended relatives. They are number one in our hearts and in our prayers.

Since coming to Kenya, we see family value here too.   God designed this physical unit to be the means of love, support, encouragement, and spiritual growth, regardless of color, culture, or creed.  On our early morning drive to work, we pass mothers carrying fire wood on their heads to provide a way to cook for their family. We see others setting up their markets - hard work every day to assemble, manage, tear down and carry their goods back home, much of which we know is for their family survival. 

Every week when we witness the Sunday morning march, there are always young children being carried on a mother’s hip.  Even long walks over dusty roads do not deter parents from ensuring the children are brought to church.  We are aware too that many families are raising extra children – grandchildren, nieces, nephews – due to various circumstances that require relatives’ support. In our compound there are nine other officer families and about five of them have extra children sharing their home. One of the single officers at THQ currently has two relative’s children living with her to help the family provide education for the children. And then there is the support provided to parents who retire. With no government pension income, many older parents rely on the financial help of their adult children. Our driver, Arnold, is a prime example. Arnold’s salary would likely be quite small (minimum wage) and his wife operates a tiny vegetable market. They have two children, yet Arnold also supports his parents who are retired officers.  Countless stories like these are the norm for families in this country. Family value.

In my devotions this month I am following a book I often use for the season of Lent – Contemplating the Cross, a pilgrimage of prayer by Tricia McCary Rhodes (highly recommend it). The book reflects the scope of Jesus suffering during passion week and the agony of the Cross. Today, the reading focused on Jesus response to his mother, Mary, and the disciple John as they stood at the foot of the Cross.  Rhodes tries to imagine how Jesus felt when he sees his mother lingering with him and how his mother felt as she gazes on her beloved son.  Perhaps time stood still as their eyes met. Did she long to caress Jesus face and ease his pain? How could she control her emotions? Only the support of John (an adopted family member) could help her bear this powerless maternal moment.  And then she hears Jesus speak. Directly to her. He has not forgotten.  John will be the one now to care for her. The woman who carried Jesus in her womb has his heart’s warmest affection - even in his dying moment. The deep human love shared between mother and son transcends all. Family value.

Whether you have a son or a daughter, or whether you are a sister or an uncle, whether you are living close or far apart, whether your family is experiencing joy or sorrow – remember today the value of family and relish the gift.  We sure do.