Eishah Smith

“But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God,” John‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

One major issue seemingly against transformation is that of genetics. “The apple doesn’t fall far the tree.” “Like father, like son.” “A chip off the old block.” Both language and culture reflect the science of genetics. The genes we receive from our parents too often directs our propensities and choices, and we seem bound to repeat the decisions of our fathers.

But believers in Christ live a different reality. Christ didn’t just die for us; He exchanged fates with us. He died our death, and we live His life. Faith in trading places with Christ enables us to live as sons and daughters of God. We live by faith in new genetics. We’re no longer bound to the inherited patterns our ancestors handed down to us. We can live with the habits, gestures, emotions and character of God. And God is not only like a biological father, He chooses to be present, active, and caring in the lives of His children.

If you have good parents, thank God for them, and for the genes, example, and instruction they gave you. If you don’t have great parents, thank God for whatever good they did give you, even if all they gave was life. If you’re a Christian thank God for being born again with new genetics, and recommit to living them out. If you’re not a Christian, consider it. All of us can thank God for the chance to start over and do better.

Action

Write your patents a thank you card or letter. Address it and mail it.

Write a poem, short story, or essay about your family history.

Draw, paint, or sculpt your family portrait. Take a photo of it and frame it.

Make a short family film highlighting your best genes.

Be creative! Come up with your own way to introduce your family.

Share your gratitude in the comments below. I’d love to hear your story, but please don’t share embarrassing or identifiable information. Tell us what how this post or exercise changed your view of yourself, your family, or your journey to wellness.