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Ohana Means Family


We got this kitten a year or so ago. My mom found her on the side of the road in the rain on her way to our house and brought her to me. She's a beautiful calico kitten that looks malnourished, dirty, and sopping wet. Of course I adopted her! We fattened her up, kept her safe at night, and gave her lots of love. Later we got more kittens from my mom and dad's farm - they were all from the same litter and you could tell they were a family unit. Fast forward to current time...I was sitting on the porch, watching the cats interact with each other and I realize Rory, the calico, has assumed the role of queen bee of my little kitty family. She rules the roost and it's clear she does. All she has to do is LOOK at the others when they are misbehaving and they shrink away in fear.

I love Rory's success story. She went from being a literal street rat and rose up to be the Queen of them all. With love, care and acceptance, she's totally immersed herself with the others and not only became part of the family but the head of the kitty household.

I know this is kind of a silly illustration but I can't help but notice the similarities between her and what happens to us when we are accepted into Jesus' family. From Ephesians 3:1-13, we read that God's plan is for us to "...share equally in the riches inherited by God's children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 3:6) When you put your faith in Jesus, you received your "adoption papers" and it changed you. You received new DNA and became heirs to all God has for his children. Christ is in you and has become part of you. He is your new blood. (1 Corinthians 1:26) Your new family. Your destiny.

Ephesians 3:1-13 speaks of the infinite treasures we inherit by being His heirs. This inheritance is not limited to eternity with Him or the end goal of life in Heaven; it also includes an improved life on Earth with His Spirit inside you. You have access to a life of blessings, happiness, love, and light. All you have to do it grab your inheritance and USE IT! Open up the relationship with your new family, open the line of communication with your new Heavenly Father, and live in what He's offering you. You're not too dirty, you're not too sinful, you're not too embarrassing for Him - you're His family and He loves you NO. MATTER. WHAT. We are all equal and lovely in his sight. Now believe it.

I love you guys - my readers - and hope everyone has a HAPPY NEW YEAR!
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