Neighbor Groups: Embrace FamiliesSample

Celebrations Are Best in Community

Every family has a purpose and role to play in God’s grand plans. This is true for all families—even ones that might have different and unique dynamics. And as the Church, we get to celebrate alongside these families.

We see this principle played out by Elizabeth in the New Testament.

When an angel told Mary that she would give birth to Jesus, one of the first things she did was share the news with her cousin, Elizabeth.

Look at how Elizabeth responded to Mary:

“As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” Luke 1:44 NIV

Elizabeth celebrated the news that Mary shared. More than that, she knew the truth before Mary spoke a word.

We have the same opportunity to celebrate with the families around us. And these opportunities aren’t restricted to large milestones. In fact, sometimes the exact thing a family needs celebrated is something we might consider normal or routine.  

Celebrations also don’t require cake, balloons, and streamers. Simply acknowledging and encouraging the families around us can impact them in more ways than we realize. 

Here are some ideas of how we can celebrate the families in our lives:

• Write a note of encouragement to a tired or overwhelmed parent.

• Take a meal to a family you know. 

• Volunteer to do laundry or take care of an errand for a single parent. 

• Offer to hang out with someone’s kids for a night so that the parent can take a break and recharge. 

• Spend quality time with a child in your life. 

• Call out good behavior you see in the kids around you.

Walking alongside the families in our communities looks like having relationships with them. It doesn’t have to be monumental to be meaningful. Simply show up, listen well, and love the families in your life just as they are. 

Pray: Heavenly Father, it’s easy to celebrate milestones—like birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Today, please give me eyes to see small moments to celebrate. Show me ways to encourage the parents, kids, and families in my community, and help me rejoice in this day that You have made. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: How can you celebrate a family around you today?