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Today’s world has an infinite variety of examples of family. Not everyone is blessed with a background of what is viewed as a traditional family. However, I have recently come to realize that this does not mean that the experience of love will be any less.

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)

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Michele is a vivacious, loving woman who lives far away from her biological family. Yet she is “mother and sister” to many. Involved for years in a renaissance reenactment group, she has developed close ties with many others she has met there.

Over time these people have become more than friends. They look out for one another and share the ups and downs of life even outside the medieval game. Birth, marriage, death and other significant events are always announced to and through “Mama May” as she is affectionately called. In this manner, she is given an outlet for her great storehouse of love even though her relatives are miles away.

That…is family.

“How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)

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Diana was a hard working truck driver who was diagnosed suddenly with multiple sclerosis. In a week’s time her body began to shut down and she was no longer able to provide for her family.

The holidays looked bleak for them, but without her knowledge local friends rallied together, gathering food, money and Christmas gifts. The love and provision that was poured out made all the difference in the world to help a struggling woman cope with the unexpected trials of life.

That…is family.

“He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.” (Proverbs 19:17)

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Jeff deals off and on with the debilitating symptoms of stiff person’s syndrome. Many times the lack of strength in his limbs leaves him confined to a wheelchair. Through it all, his faith hasn’t wavered and he is utilizing his seminary training to run a non profit organization that reaches out to the handicapped. The goal is to meet their needs on a physical level while sharing the good news of Christ.

Recently, a large group of people arrived at his house and worked all day as a team, building a sturdy wheelchair ramp. Their labor was a small way of thanking Jeff for his compassion and contribution towards so many lives.

That…is family.

"…I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)

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I choked back a lump in my throat, watching with anticipation and pride as my husband walked his youngest daughter down the aisle. I knew it was a bittersweet moment for him, but what surprised me is how much I was impacted as well!

Since my stepdaughter and I are close in age, it was more a friendship than a mother/daughter relationship that developed between us. So I was quite surprised when the wedding preparations sent me into a gradual, emotional meltdown.

I finally realized that unconventional though it may be; my relationship with Bryanna has allowed me a glimpse of what it is to feel the way a mother loves her children.

That...is family.

“Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” (Proverbs 17:6)

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Family has such a wonderful place in God’s grand design. Take a moment to think about the relationships in your life. Although they may not be “family” in the traditional sense, thank the Lord for those he has provided to enrich your life in various ways through the years.

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.” (Romans 15:5)

Copyright L.Joy Douglas