Extended Family: Family Matters More Than Ever
In the past decade, a fascinating trend has emerged in Europe and Asia that has caught my attention. Governments have started showing increased concern for the decline in birth-rates and population as well as the migration of individuals to major cities or even to other countries [1]. This trend has been further fuelled by technological advancements and the challenges faced by small and big cities in catering to their aging populations [2].
Recently, being new to the Jubilee Centre, I had the opportunity to read a thought-provoking publication called Reactivating the Extended Family by Michael Schluter and Roy Clements [3]. What struck me as remarkable was how its insights, rooted in a biblical perspective, foresaw the issues that upcoming generations would face. Nearly 40 years ago, while society was primarily focused on individual progress and economic growth, the authors emphasized the significance of relationships, particularly within family structures and local communities. It highlighted these as the very things that God deeply cares about and considers essential for a flourishing society.
The publication focused on the instructions that God had given to the people of Israel upon their arrival in the promised land. These intentionally emphasized the strengthening of familial bonds and the establishment of stability within each tribe. What touched me profoundly was witnessing God's care for every individual within society, especially for the sick and the elderly. He assigned each family composed of three (3) or more generations a piece of land, a responsibility, and, with it, a blessing to protect and sustain future generations.
In a world increasingly driven by economic systems like capitalism and Marxism, it is refreshing to consider an alternative perspective that prioritizes the well-being of families and local communities. These values are foundational to God's design for society and hold the potential to transcend the boundaries imposed by prevailing ideologies.
Reading this publication opened my eyes to the importance of nurturing our extended families and fostering meaningful connections within our local communities. It reminded me that, amidst the ever-changing landscape of modern life, the enduring strength of family ties can provide stability, support, and a sense of belonging.
While this blog post only scratches the surface of the profound insights shared in Reactivating the Extended Family, I encourage you to delve deeper into this publication. Its wisdom and timeless principles offer a refreshing perspective on the redeeming of society and relationships - one that has the potential to guide us towards a more balanced and fulfilling way of life.
Remember, family matters more than ever, and by nurturing these vital connections, we can contribute to the healing and restoration of our communities. Let us embark on this journey together, guided by the timeless wisdom of God’s law explained in the pages of this remarkable book.
Ruben Alarcon
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[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-63830490
[3] Reactivating The Extended Family: From Biblical Norms to Public Policy in Britain by M. Schluter and R. Clements (Jubilee Centre Paper No. 1. Cambridge: Jubilee Centre Publications Ltd, 1986. x + 70 pp. n.p.)
The views and opinions expressed above are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect those of the Jubilee Centre or its trustees.
