The importance of family relationships

Today we joined our son's family at a Japanese Restaurant for lunch in Chinatown. This was to celebrate our youngest grandson, Andrew's birthday. It was his choice to have Japanese food. Of all the six grandchildren, we have spent more time with him than with any of the others who were born during our absence from Singapore on overseas service. Andrew was born since we retired in 1997, even then, I was away in Chicago America to conduct Bible studies. My wife chose not to accompany me in that trip.

We normally meet on a Saturday at our son's home for lunch but on special occasions we go out for a meal.

As I write my mind goes to a verse in Proverbs: "The Lord's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous." Proverbs 3:33 Colonel Henry Gariepy in his commentary said this,

"In Proverbs the family holds the pivotal place in society. The book of Scripture portrays the family as the fundamental unit of the nation, a cohesive bond of relationships. Husband, wife, parent and children relationships receive constructive attention from this book of practical religion. What, after all, is more practical than family life?

"In our day of unprecedented breakdown in the family, we would do well to heed the wisdom found in these pages. Our text offers one of the most beautiful beatitudes of Proverbs: 'He blesses the home of the righteous.'"

We saw more of our grandchildren when they were younger. I recall the days
when I used to fetch Andrew to Kindergarten, and later to fetch him home from ACS Barker Road. Now of course, he is old enough to be independent and take public transport so we see less of him.

Four of our older grandchildren have graduated and now gainfully employed. They are very busy in their work and other activities, so it is an added pleasure when we can meet them for fellowship.

We thank God for the two families, both living not far from us. Our daughter and family live in Jurong East. Whenever possible we would go out for a meal. With the two older ones working long hours, the youngest in national service, it is not easy to find time to get the whole family together. Still they do try to make arrangements for meal even if one or two are absent.

We see our youngest daughter, Dora Poh Chin, God's special child now in the Salvation Army Nursing Home. We thank God daily she is well loved and cared for by the staff and nurses. She cannot join us for meals and fellowship, but we do see her every Monday when we visit the Home. Thank for making this provision.

Prayer: Father God, for the joy of human love we thank You. We thank You for your omnipresence and when we meet for meals or fellowship You are there in our midst. Help us in our thoughts and conversation to honour You.
May our conversation bring honour to Your name. Help us to love, care for each other and affirm those near and dear to us. In Jesus' name. Amen.