Needless to say it was a different time and in today's world not all
families can practice the routine we followed. But just to be clear: it is
important for each family to make time for devotions within the home and insofar
as possible that time should include all family members.
Our day started with gathering at the breakfast table where we partook
together of God's provisions for the start of our day. As soon as the dishes
were cleared we all sat in the living area for "family altar."
A portion of scripture would be read aloud. Each member of the family,
even the youngest who could read, had a turn at reading. We discussed the verses read, Mama or Daddy leading but all were included
and each person was encouraged to offer thoughts or questions. Then we talked
about the things we would address to the Lord in prayer. We all knelt at our respective places and in turn each person would pray
aloud.
Following the devotional period the individual family members went about
the beginning of his or her daily duties: Daddy to work, Mother to the kitchen
to make preparations for the maintenance of the home and the family's
well-being, the children off to school or off to play depending on the age and
the season of the year.
Whatever traditions are built and maintained in the home it is my opinion
that none is more important to the spiritual health of the family and its
members than is the "family altar," a cohesive devotional time.
Image: preparedtoanswer.org
2 comments:
We had one so disruptive that we were not able to do this. He was hoping to be sent to his room so he didn't have to participate. We would then have been able to hold the "event" without him, which defeated the purpose of "family" devotions. He has turned out to be the one who actually has some faith left. Weird, eh?
Sharkey, strange as it may seem, I think it not all that uncommon that a "rebellious" youth embraces the faith later in life. Personal testimony.
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