Dr. Craig Ward is Senior Pastor at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Clarkesville. To learn more about the church’s ministry visit www.bbcofclarkesville.org.
One of the greatest blessings I consider in life is my upbringing. My parents raised me to appreciate the important things. Their life lessons where not so much in word but in action. Mom and Dad taught me the importance of marriage. They understood that commitment made to one another “to have and to hold . . . in sickness and health . . . for richer or poorer . . . in good times and bad . . . ‘til death do us part.” I take great pride in their forty-four years of marriage.
Mom and Dad taught me the importance of investing time with my children. My two sisters and I were very busy between choir concerts, drama productions, and an array of sporting events. Though life was incredibly busy, few games or events took place without both or at least one of my parents in attendance.
Mom and Dad taught me the importance of the local church – not many Sundays or Wednesdays passed without the Ward family present. My parents did not have a church life separated from a home life. They had a relationship with Jesus which permeated every aspect of their lives.
Now, Anne and I are raising our four children. In this endeavor, the goal we have for our children is to appreciate the important things. As the years pass, I reflect on the “good old days.” Life did seem much simpler. Like many of you, I was not raised with cell phones, computers, or social media. If I needed to communicate with someone, I did not have the opportunity to tweet, update my status, e-mail or text. Rather, a simple phone call, writing a note, or mailing a letter would accomplish the goal. Indeed, life is fast-paced and changing ever so quickly.
Yet, let’s not forget to appreciate the important things. Let’s not allow the speed of life and the dramatic changes of life take us away from what is important.
Traditional marriage is indeed important. This precious institution given by God is one that has been criticized and critiqued to the point that many view this sacred union as archaic. As a matter of fact, a disturbing trend among couples is the choice of living together rather than making the formal commitment of investing their lives with one another. We must commit to hold on to our spouse recognizing life together is an act of worship to God almighty.
Parents are indeed important. Mother Teresa once said, “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.” Our society is declining because children are taken for granted and overlooked. Parents must understand their impact on their children is much greater than any teacher, pastor, or adult.
The local church is important. Although many believe the local church is outdated and out-of-touch and many local churches have allowed themselves to become outdated and out-of-touch, these local bodies of believers are meant to be so effective in our communities. I will share in my next article why the local church is so important today.
