Family Spotlight: The Grace Family

We are the Grace Family – Jack and Debbie, Rachel (20), David (19), Sarah (17) and Jack (14). We have been attending APCC since November 2016 and have enjoyed serving in Set Up, Hospitality and Children’s Ministry. Our kids have loved the youth group and we are part of equip groups within the Fairfax Connect Group led by the Los and Fungs.

In his message last week on Peace, Kenji referred to the book of Isaiah, chapter 11 and its illustration of the lion laying down with the lamb. He explained that, like those very different animals, we can and should have peace with those who are not like us and who we may not even like. We need to seek Christ and the peace He brings and look to Him for the ability to cope with conflict.

Parenting certainly brings its share of conflict resolution among children who are each unique. We need to encourage our kids to celebrate their differences, even when their tendency is to be annoyed by them. They (and we!) need to try to enjoy those ‘unique-nesses’ and learn from them, and to look for similarities and common ground. We need to pray for and with our kids, knowing that God often puts difficult people around us to help us grow – and sometimes that comes in the form of a sibling! He is faithful to provide His peace, especially at this time of year, and in the midst of a pandemic.