When God created the family, I believe all of Heaven smiled.
There was a plan, and our Heavenly Father’s plan was perfect.
The institution of family wasn’t an accident, happenstance, or a manmade “lightbulb moment,” but rather, a holy, God-sized feat of supernatural brilliance. In short, it was and is miraculous!
Though some in today’s world might downplay it, the family isn’t old hat, yesterday’s news, or just a nice word that conjures daydreams and sugar cookies.
Those who perpetuate that nonsense have lost touch with God’s original intention, or perhaps, they’ve seen it so watered down that they’ve actually bought into the same, indoctrinated mindset.
While it’s true that the ideal of family has morphed into multiple perceptions, God hasn’t changed His perception or diminished the family’s value.
Every time I turn on the television, I’m amazed by the ingenious ways we’re desensitized to what we once held dear. Morals, spirituality, Godly values–all compromised and tossed aside as easily as the next infomercial.
And family? Well, it’s almost laughable the way that institution is portrayed. I find it difficult to laugh because it really isn’t funny.
Bleeped words, embarrassing gestures, and wardrobe malfunctions highlight today’s television programming–all during what used to be the family hour. But at least I can take comfort in the fact as I sit here on my stodgy high horse, that despite a few dents, my hat fits just fine. God made it so.
******
A great website for families: Answers in Genesis
If you like nostalgia and all things Waltons: Earl Hamner, Jr.
******
What’s your favorite family memory?
Do you feel that television does an adequate job of portraying family? Anything you’d change?
Photo Credit: David Castillo Dominici/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Blessings Always,
Comments 8
TV has taken over a place that is shaping minds in the wrong direction – the look at ME and MY drama. Really, it’s all about the money. We see people on these “reality” shows…they throw tantrums, spy, plot, talk behind each others back, and so on, and so on to push the limit…it’s sad to watch. And in all reality – it’s only done to catch the prize…the money.
Great post, Cynthia.
Author
Loree, wow! A right-on-the-money (no pun intended) summary of today’s mindset. “Reality” T.V. shows are a sad low to which television has sunk.
I think it does a pitiful job! When I was a kid it was family hour and families on TV were together and cared about each other. In this world, with so much divorce and death, I can get with shows that have divorced parents and widows, but the message needs to be inspiring. It rarely is.
Author
Jess, so true. I think if the focus were more about adversity being overcome with an emphasis on some positive message, it would generate a whole new viewership. (Movies like Facing the Giants, Courageous, and October Baby should be proof that families are crying out for wholesome, uplifting entertainment.)
Yep, the channel that now boasts “A New Kind of Family” has left a twang in my mouth…
Oh goodness, television is a scary thing, isn’t it? Even during a perfectly fine family show, the commercials can be awful. I find myself switching to a blank channel during commercials just to keep the kids from seeing anything they shouldn’t.
Author
Sarah, isn’t that the truth?! Things we wouldn’t have seen even 10 years ago are all over the television screen now. Big broadcast events such as music award shows, ballgames, etc. are prime examples of “anything goes.”
TV certainly portrays dysfunctional families. Some of my best family memories involved Sunday drives to see the countryside.
Author
Patti, you did the Sunday drive thing, too? I loved those as a kiddo! Afraid they’re now a thing of the past.