Is your family so united that the father can speak for the whole family, as Joshua did? Are you of "one heart and one mind," at least with your spouse? (Acts 4:32) Do your children share your faith in the Lord? Is your family united, or is it several independent, isolated individuals? The Lord is working at this moment to unite your family around Himself as the Center.

As each member of your family draws closer to Jesus, you will become closer to each other. The way to family unity is total commitment to Jesus. When even one family member seeks first God's kingdom, family life begins to fall into place (Mt 6:33). Turn your life and your family over to Jesus. He alone is the Savior. He alone can save the family.

Even if you feel it's too late for your family, don't believe what you see, but walk by faith (2 Cor 5:7). The Lord promises: "Those who oppose you I will oppose and your sons" and daughters and spouses "I will save" (Is 49:25). Jesus is Savior of you and your family. "That is why I kneel before the Father from Whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name; and I pray that He will bestow on you gifts in keeping with the riches of His glory. May He strengthen you inwardly through the working of His Spirit. May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith" (Eph 3:14-17). The family that prays together in Jesus' name stays together in unity.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 8, 2005

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