A New Son, Grandson, Nephew, Cousin!


This past Thursday, Levi James Harris was born to my brother John and his wife Kivian.  He is John and Kivian’s fourth son, my 10th nephew (on the Harris side of the family), my children’s 13th cousin on that side of the family, and my parent’s 16th grandchild and 12th grandson! In other words, there are a lot of kids, and especially boys, on my family’s side! 

In spite of the fact that Levi was born a bit premature (about 34 weeks), he weighed in at just over 5 pounds and was breathing on his own.  Of course, he will remain in a neo-natal unit for a couple of weeks. But, we thank God for his life as we look forward to the way he will one day interact with us all as a son, grandson, nephew, and cousin.  In our hearts we have already welcomed him into the family. 

Someday, however, he will be more than a son, grandson, nephew, or cousin.  He will go on to be a friend, a fellow student, and co-worker. One day he may be a husband, a dad, even a grandfather.  In other words, his relationships and influence will extend beyond the family boundaries. He will be more than John’s and Kivian’s son. He will become a man who will stand on his own, set up his own household, and have his own place in our world.  His life will eventually affect the lives of many. 

That is the case with us all.  We all have a place of influence, both within and outside of our family boundaries. We are sons and daughters, aunts and uncles, husbands and wives. We are someone’s friend, neighbor, co-worker, or fellow student.  We affect the lives of others daily by our words and deeds.  We have the potential to bring blessing or harm to others.  We lift people up or we put them down.  

The Bible teaches us to live our lives in such a way that we bring the positive into each other’s lives, and not the negative.  The Apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up….” (1 Thessalonians 4:18 – NIV);  “Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” (Romans 15:2 – NIV)  Jesus even said, “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,”  (Luke 16:27 – NIV)

So, what kind of affect are we having on the lives of others?  After all, every day we come into contact with lots of people who are affected by who we are, the things we do, and the words we speak.  May our lives be lives of blessing to those both within and outside of our family boundaries.

Have a great day.

Pastor Tim Harris

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