" Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the tactics of the devil." Ephesians 6:11
This week we looked at the growing importance of Christian men taking responsibility for the formation of their families. Recognizing the outside influences of the media in our society and the pull of the "good life" trying to tear down the family structure. We need to battle these influences with clarity of thought and integrity of action.
The battle is waged by putting on Jesus Christ. By putting God number one in our lives and coating ourselves with this armor, we have the strength to fight the war against Satan and win the battle for the successful Christian growth of our families.
That Man is You! Week 10: November 11, 2011
"get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt." Angel from God to Joseph. Matthew 2:13
St. Joseph took responsibility for the family that was bestowed upon him by listening to the voice of God in his dreams. Joseph was given several messages about taking Mary as his wife, protecting his family by going to Egypt and fulfilling scripture by returning to Israel when it was safe. Joseph didn't hesitate at any of these messages. Through the love of God and his family, he acted upon his messages from God and became a leader of his family.
We men of this current time need to learn from Joseph and be the leader of our families as Joseph was. By praying to God and listening to the Holy Spirit, we can make good Catholic decisions that can strengthen the bond of love that resides in our family.
That Man is You! Week 9: November 4, 2011
"...and it was there that he humbled himself, obediently accepting even death, death on a cross."
The fifth trait of authentic male leadership is being willing to pay the price. If we are to follow in the steps of Jesus Christ, we have to be able to pay the price as he did. He paid the ultimate price of dying for us. Dying for our sins so we can enter the Kingdom of God.
We as Christian men can do this also by denying ourselves and giving ourselves to our spouses and children. Treating our wives as gifts from God and being available to our children, to help them with home work, driving them to religious education classes or sharing in their success at school.
That Man is You!