In a world increasingly marked by individualism and fractured relationships, Christians who prioritise family responsibility shine as distinctive lights of the world.
Before we read one of Paul’s shocking sentences we do well to remind ourselves that authentic faith always translates into authentic care for those closest to us.
“But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” – 1 Timothy 5:8
This was a serious indictment in the 1st century, to be called, “worse than an unbeliever”.
The word “provide” is literally, “to think ahead” or “to take thought for,” suggesting this isn’t just about meeting immediate needs but involves thoughtful planning and anticipation of family members’ requirements.
The principle of 1 Timothy 5:8 doesn’t necessarily mean every family must provide direct care in their home, but it does mean we cannot simply abandon our parents to institutional care without consideration and involvement.
My dad has been in a lovely care home for the last few months. It was a difficult decision for my Mum and for me and my brother. In the end with the onset of Alzheimer’s and his constant falling a decision for his safety had to be made. Those who have had to make similar decisions know the heart-breaking journey that has been. But one thing we can say is, Dad, has not been abandoned. My Mum goes every single day to see him. She sits and joins in the entertainment that the home put on for Dad. She shows him pictures of 60 years ago and he remembers every single name as they look at these moments of times that they shared together. Me and my brother visit as often as we can and strapped into a wheelchair push him to the park for an ice-cream. My Dad spent his entire life caring for people and now he is needing to be cared for. He is at his most neediest. He is vulnerable like never before. It is upsetting and tiring especially for Mum. But he is provided for, cared for and loved. For us, we have not “denied the faith” as Paul instructs us all not to.
Caring for Dad is not merely a social obligation, it is a spiritual indicator.
How can we claim to love a God we cannot see if we fail to care for family members we see daily?
I don’t live near where Dad is. It is a 6 hour round-trip and sometimes that can be longer. That might seem like a burden but it isn’t. You see, our care for family members becomes a tangible expression of God’s care for us—thoughtful, sacrificial, and enduring. I do it for Dad because God continually does it for me.
Missions Paul 