Article May 1, 1995 Issue

Feed the tares to the chickens!

Sharla Jean Pugh

Most of us would probably agree that to feel like "family," regardless of human parentage, is to feel the warmest kind of acceptance. Even though relationships can sometimes offer plenty of opportunity for conflict resolution, we're deeply blessed by the commitment of family and friends to help, love, and uplift one another.

The Bible describes this kind of love. In one parable, the father of a prodigal son who for some time showed no sign of appreciation for his dad, runs to embrace his son when he comes home. In another, the good Samaritan lovingly helps a stranger (see Luke 15:11-20; 10:30-35).

Christ Jesus, who told these parables to those who followed him, knew better than anyone else that we all really are family because we all have the same heavenly Father. Very plainly, he told his disciples that he considered everyone who did his Father's will to be his mother, sister, and brother (see Matt. 12:50). He also knew that, despite appearances, only love and goodness make up the "built-in," genuine nature of every one of God's children. Jesus understood that man is actually God's spiritual, perfect likeness, not a selfish or cruel mortal. He continued, therefore, to love even the critics who belittled his healing work, followers who forsook him, and the soldiers and officials who would arrest and crucify him.

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