The importance of protecting the family unit

The teachings of a father endure in the lives of his children leaving a mark that neither time nor the changing conditions in life erase. I want to share a teaching my father gave us in a time of illness that he knew would be brought into the presence of the Lord. His desire was to establish unity and harmony between us as brothers.

I grew up in a home with three sisters and a brother. As you know, where there are so many children, there is no lack of conflicts over toys or any situation. My parents bought all of us dolls or toys so that we wouldn't have little fights, of course they also bought trolleys or toys for my brother. Also, when it came to clothes, they bought us all dresses, shoes, etc. Unless it was a birthday which explained a special day for each of us. In times of little trouble, they taught us and helped us reconcile and we ended up hugging and playing again. Already being all older at the time my father was affected by terminal cancer, he received word from the Lord that he was going to take him away.

My father gathered us around his bed to say goodbye to each of us. It was a very difficult time and we did not want to accept that his death was drawing near. However, he very calmly spoke to each of us starting with my mom, thanking her and highlighting the love and admiration that he always carried in his heart. Then he addressed each of us starting with my older sister. Today after so many years, I remember her words of advice for my walk as a woman of character.

One of the fundamental points that he spoke to us was the need to protect the family unit and prefer each other. He used an image that I remember today, he gave my sister a toothpick and said "break it" and my sister broke it. Then he gave him five chopsticks and said, "break them" and he couldn't break them no matter how hard he tried. He then explained to us how these sticks represented the five of us and staying in unity will help us not only achieve our individual goals but also prevent us from being hurt by walking alone.

Reflecting on this teaching that seemed elementary I can see great principles; one of them the family unit. In this time where the enemy is attacking families, through the rebellion of the children and undermining the relations between the spouses; It is essential to open ourselves up, to teach children and young people the value of unity founded on Christ, to make a definite effort to unleash harmony in spouses to set an example of how to solve interpersonal problems. Healthy and united families promote a church that is also healthy, united, with the ability to resolve differences, seeking the kingdom of God to be established on earth. Let us remember that unity and harmony in the home is fertile ground for the growth of children.

Let us pray for our families: Heavenly Father, thank you for the family you have given me, I bless my mommy and my brothers and I declare unity and harmony in our midst that our differences serve to complement and help us in every situation. Lord allow our unity to be greater as we are all committed to walking in you. I ask that you heal any hurt that we have caused ourselves due to a lack of understanding of your truth. I declare my family free from all division and separation and relationships restored by the power of your spirit. I also declare unity in our church and we can serve one another in the love of Christ. Amen