One of the key archetypes for learning about the life of faith in the Old Testament is the family. From the beginning, God called and covenanted with a family unit so that through them, “all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” That family grew into a broad and complex set of familial relationships, connected to God and each other. This summer, the worship team saw this metaphor as a good way to teach us how to follow God as members of our own families, and as a part of the “Family of God.” Author Peter Scazzero recognizes this intersection, as well. In his book The Emotionally Healthy Church, he describes principles that are important within healthy family systems and congregational systems, often pointing to examples of families in the Bible.
This month, we will explore together what these family stories teach us about healthy relationships, both within our own families, and within our congregation. Not all of the Scriptural families look the same or demonstrate well-being in the same way. But they all have something in common with Scazzero’s principles of health and faith, each recipients of God’s grace and systemic love.
November 1: A Family Embraces Grief and Loss (All Saints Day) — Ruth and Naomi
November 8: A Family Lives in Brokenness and Vulnerability — Jacob and His Family
November 15: A Family Breaks the Power of the Past (Rev. Dr. Nathan Huguley preaching) Joseph and His Brothers
November 22: A Family Knows the Gift of Limits (Thanksgiving Sunday) — Esther and Mordecai