Family Stories

My grandson requested that I scan some old family photos so that he may show them to his children and they’ll come to know his great-grandparents – people he spent time with, knew and loved so very well.

As usual, I don’t know where to stop. There were some with my aunts and uncles, and I’d love for my grandchildren to come to know them. So, I’m working on fixing up a Family Book that not only contains some old photos, but also includes the story around those families. The problem is, there is not enough room for everything about every one since I can track all of my children’s ancestors back past 1800. It will be interesting where I do find a place to stop, for the stories are many.

Thus I must leave out some things.

The gospel writers had the same problem. As John wrote: And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen. (John 21:25)

The others must have encountered the same problem. Fortunately, as He had done before, God took care of that: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16)

How suspect would it have been for only one man to have written of Christ’s work. Instead, we have four of His direct followers, writing to differing audiences, and they combine to show a wide portrait of the Son of God.

Had Paul preached only at one church, sending epistles out to others, how limited would have been his letters. Instead, he wrote to many churches, to individuals, and his message remained the same: For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:2)

Christ promised us: Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. (Matthew 24:35) (Mark 13:31) (Luke 21:33)

It is possible that my great-grandchildren may share their father’s stories for another generation or even two. But God has provided that His word will endure until His return.

The Revelation early promises: Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. (Revelation 3:11)

At the end we find much the same: He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20)

Can we but repeat – Come, Lord Jesus, quickly.