Family ties that bind across distance
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Before any kingdom was established or temple built, God created the family as the foundation of His creation. In the Garden of Eden, the Lord brought Adam and Eve together, declaring, "That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). Through the family, God designed a framework for security, accountability, and the fulfillment of His creation.
When Jacob moved from Canaan to Egypt, he brought scores of extended family members with him. "All those who went to Egypt with Jacob—those who were his direct descendants, not counting his sons' wives—numbered sixty-six persons" Genesis 46:26). Despite the challenges of a dramatic relocation, his extended family stayed together, showing the value of unity.
When the Israelites conquered Canaan, God divided the land among the tribes and decreed that each individual plot of ground was to remain in the family for generations. This sense of ownership and permanence gave each family member roots, identity, and a lasting connection to God's promise.
However, Jesus warned us that Satan's mission was to destroy what God established. "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy" (John 10:10). Satan is cunning and relentless in his efforts to undermine the family. He sows seeds of divorce, cohabitation, homosexuality, transgenderism, dysfunction, and abuse, delighting in shattered dreams, severed relationships, and broken homes. Broken homes lead to broken communities, and broken communities pave the way for societal decay. The more fragmented our families become, the easier it is for the enemy to advance his schemes.
The realities of modern life, with families frequently spread across cities, states, or even countries due to jobs, marriages, college, or military assignments, can also contribute to family fragmentation. Without intentional effort, physical distance can lead to emotional and spiritual distance. The physical separation weakens the emotional and spiritual bonds that provide encouragement and accountability, making us more vulnerable to Satan's attacks. For this reason, we must be deliberate about staying connected, lest the enemy "sift us like wheat" (Luke 22:31).
Several months ago, my wife, Judy, stumbled upon an idea that has helped our family stay connected despite being spread throughout the South: Louisville, Kentucky; Port Charlotte, Florida; Franklin, Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; and Tampa, Florida. She initiated a family group text chat called the "Russell Family Sunday Night Show and Tell." Every Sunday evening, each family member is encouraged to share a highlight from their past week.
It's been enjoyable to keep up with and celebrate with everyone. We see photos of birthday parties, sunsets, Halloween costumes, and baptisms. We hear about sports events, small group gatherings, favorite meals, and quiet walks in the park. Judy often sends throwback pictures of our boys or grandkids, stirring up laughter and memories.
Some text updates aren't earth-shattering, but they offer glimpses into each person's life that we might otherwise miss. While our Sunday evening family group text doesn't come close to a physical connection, it has been a beautiful reminder that, no matter how far apart we are, we are still a family.
In the television series The Waltons, John-Boy prepares to leave home. His father, struggling to accept that his oldest son is leaving, offers some fatherly advice about life away from home: "Always pay your debts, son. Don't take unfair advantage of any man, and don't let any man take unfair advantage of you. Find yourself a good woman." Then, he offers this simple yet profound wisdom: "Remember, you're my son."
That single sentence speaks volumes. It reminds John-Boy of his roots, his values, and his responsibility to represent his family well. Similarly, staying connected to our families reinforces who we are and helps us remain grounded in the truths we were taught.
There's an old saying: "You can't go home again." While there's truth to that, there's another truth in that we are more likely to remain faithful to the values and faith instilled in our childhood if we stay connected to our extended family. It doesn't just preserve memories; it nurtures faith, reinforces values, and strengthens bonds. Whether through weekly updates, family gatherings, or simply a phone call. Let's remind one another who we are and whose we are.
"As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—eternal life" (1 John 2:24-25).
 | Bob Russell became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church at just 22 years old. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches; conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups. Learn More » |
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- The power of an unoffendable heart (by Tom Crenshaw)
