A Family Time

TUES., SEPT. 4, 1990, 8:50 AM
NORTHWEST AIR, HEADING WEST

You are on the way home from a time with your whole immediate family. It was an interesting time, and though I was not acknowledged in any direct ways, I was with you there on the lakeshore. And, as you might expect, I have some observations that should help your understanding and appreciation of these past several days.

The time together was good, with generally good feeling being in evidence. The differences that are so apparent among your sons and from you and Lenore generally were put away, and common interests, recollections, and recreations were the order of the week. I am not entirely comfortable with this, but it is often the best way when the time is limited.

You know and I know that three of your sons and their wives are closely related to Me, even as the ways are different. You know that I like diversity, so I am not bothered by these differences in form or in expression of relationship. There shall surely be a time when Michael can devote much more time and energy to My work through his church, but that time is not yet. Bob and Kathleen seek My help regularly and devotedly, but I don’t often do blatant miracles, so they shall have a few more difficult years as they strive to become established in a more spacious abode. You don’t consider that you took risks like their present ones, but the times were different… and you actually did take some risks, with your parents’ help. Hold your criticism and advice and be aware of all that develops. By now you know that things often turn out better than expected, for those who love the Lord. Just continue to remind him, gently, of his scholarly responsibilities.

It is clear that you have had some influences on your sons, but when you valued freedom of expression and thought and “develop your own self in your own way” you knew there would be differences. You can be pleased with the ways in which they are being men, husbands, and fathers, each in a somewhat different style. You can take some credit for this, which is less evident than attempts to mold them all in a common way.

Matthew was an active part of the weekend, and differences with him definitely were minimized. He still stands apart from Me, but I still await his coming closer. His money makes this both easier and harder. It will take some time for him to establish a comfortable way of dealing with this amount of money. He is not yet there, and I await. He clearly has utilized some of his wealth to help others. He also clearly is spending some in profligate ways. He must come to the realization that this latter way is much less satisfying than the former. He has opportunities galore, but he must learn, at his pace, how to balance these for the most genuine satisfaction.

The grandchildren also are a diverse lot, but it was wonderful to see them doing so well together. Each has a personality which is unique, being guided by parents, friends, and siblings… and, to an extent, by the church. Enjoy watching them grow and influence them as you can. Don’t force yourself on them, but be aware of ways and times when you can be of help.

Now you return to other developing families – the class groups you are now creating. These are not families that last, but when spirit is developed they have the semblance of family. You shall have several other extra opportunities this month. Do these with spirit and just the right amount of preparation. Submission of proposals for the spiritual conference must be a priority. You know this, but I shall remind you, as the month goes along.

I did purpose for you and Lenore to be together in this life. The family gathering was an indirect evidence that you were a good balance together in being quite satisfactory parents… though not outstanding. Continue to enjoy your life together, sharing yourselves in your individual ways as well as together. Serve Me through your church activities, giving yourselves to this family, as well.