Relationship

relationship - the relation connecting or building; kinship; a state of affairs existing between those having relations or dealings

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:5

It was 1994.  I was 14 years old and had fallen head over heels for Bradley Westbrook.  This guy and I were inseparable.  I knew I was going to marry him after one phone conversation.  Fast forward almost 20 years and you can see that what began as a relationship between two kids blossomed into a loving family.

That relationship was set in motion through God our Father.  I have no doubt about this divine union.

This brings to mind the relationship between Joseph and Mary.  The Bible tells us that Joseph was a just and upright man.  Joseph chose to believe when the angel of the Lord came to him and told him that Mary had conceived a child through the Holy Spirit.  He was committed to Mary and his relationship with her.  Instead of turning his cheek, Joseph trusted in God’s word. 

Our relationships are mottled with hardship.  In uncertain times, we are to remember our commitments to one another and uphold them.

Mary gave birth to Jesus, who over the course of his life, taught us how to love and have relationships with one another and with God.

I asked my 6 year old what it meant to have a relationship with Jesus.  He gave me a quizzical look and said, “Huh?  What does that mean?”  To me it means acting like a 14 year old who doesn’t want to get off the phone with Jesus.  To ask questions and gain wisdom.  To read the Word, to learn his ways.  To pray, seek, and desire Him with your heart.  1Corinthians 14:1 states, “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire the gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.”

This Advent season, remember your special relationships and honor those commitments.  Use the example of Jesus to direct your steps in interacting with others.  Be mindful of the trust that Joseph showed when faced with uncertain circumstances.  And hold steady of the charge to love God and love your neighbor.      

Destiny Westbrook