Weekly Reflections – Intentional Families V

April 1, 2020

Weekly Reflections – Intentional Families V

INTENTIONAL FAMILIES: Control Pace of Life

This is the sixth weekly reflection in a series on “Forming Intentional Families.” We continue addressing each of ten tenets over the remaining four weeks. The producers of this program wisely wrote, “Intentional means that we do more than just react to life. Instead, we must create a vision, make purposeful choices, and then decisively take action to make our families all that God desires them to be.” Can you choose to be intentional when it comes to your family?

Sometimes events beyond our control will force changes on our schedules and our pace of life. The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) crisis is one of those events beyond our control.

Blessings and peace with my prayer for an “slower paced week” during this time, for many, of virus oriented isolation,”

Chaplain Allen
chaplain@nationsu.edu
chaplainscorner.org

TENET 5: Control Pace of Life

1. Our time on Earth is precious. Live in the present moment and you will find Jesus there.
2. Modern society is driven to fill all available time with some activity, causing stress, depression, anxiety and burnout.
3. Our schedules are often booked solid with work, social activities, athletics, music lessons, extra classes, and other activities with no time to rest or even eat a meal in an unhurried manner. Simplify your schedule and enjoy life together.
4. Allow enough time for sleep and exercise to promote good physical, mental and spiritual health.
5. Be wary of over-commitment. “No” can be a holy word.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? But seek first the kingdom of God and this righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will take care of itself.”
Matthew 6:26, 33-34

The Ten Tenets of the “Forming Intentional Families” program.

1. Set family priorities.
2. Share family meals.
3. Lead family prayer and teach the faith.
4. Manage/limit media intake.
5. Control pace of life.
6. Forgive easily and often/ask for forgiveness.
7. Encourage active listening/open and honest communication.
8. Schedule family fun and play time.
9. Teach/model responsibility and accountability.
10. Acknowledge and share our gifts and talents.

Source: This program was developed over several years by the St. Laurence Pastoral Council (distributed April 2019) in Sugar Land, Texas.

Note: The opinions expressed in this Reflection are intended to be those of the author alone based on his understanding of the Bible and how God works with his people.

April 1, 2020