Family Ties

I write a lot on this blog about my current family, the one that includes my husband and three children. But, I haven't yet talked about my original family, the one from which I came. The parents who raised me and the sisters who grew up with me. Today's post is dedicated to them.
First, I thought I would share some photos of my family, through the years. As you can clearly see, I have never been fond of having my picture taken. Also, isn't fun to see how the styles have changed over the years?

1978     //     1990     //     1994
1983     //     1988     //     1997

My parents were married in April of 1974, nearly 39 years ago. I came along in March of 1975. Then, my sister J in October 1977, and, finally, K in October 1982. When you think of the typical stereotypes regarding birth order, we are it - the overachiever, the peacemaker and the rebel. Obviously, there is more to each of us than this single trait, but it is amazing to see how the theory of birth order has materialized in our family.
The things about my family that I am most grateful for all revolve around the word love. That may sound cliche...but it's the truth. My family experience taught me how to love God, love in marriage, and love one other.
Love for God. My parents both came from a background in Catholicism and grew up learning about God. As an infant I was baptized. But, as my parents have said, they needed more. They were searching for a relationship with God. They both became Christians early on in their marriage, and shared with us the importance of developing a relationship with Christ, rather than simply going through the motions. (I hope not to offend anyone with this. It just happens to be my parents' experience).
We always attended church, prayed together as a family, and made serving God a priority. I know that not all families are like this. I was blessed to have had this experience, to be raised by Godly parents and to realize the importance of having a relationship with Jesus at a young age. I first realized my need for a savior at age 7.
Love in marriage. My parents did not and do not have the perfect marriage. I really don't think there is such a thing. But, I've always known that they love each other. They were never shy to show modest affection. And, they often showed their love by doing kind things for one another. I learned a lot about marriage by watching them.
Love for each other. Over the years, I have never doubted my parents love for me. Even during the times when I needed rebuking or when we didn't agree, there was always love. As a family, we have supported each other, even when poor decisions were made. We have wept together and prayed for each other in desperate times. Even today, I know that I can call on my parents or my sisters and they will do or be anything I need.
I was not born into a perfect family, but it was a family that was designed for me by God. My family. 
So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:11{scripture challenge, day 29:  relationships}

Linking up with Family Fridays