I love the saying “the road is paved with good intentions.” I think about it often when pursuing relationships with my family and children. Usually, it’s at night, when the day calms down, that I think of the hundreds of ways I missed the mark in pursuing my family well. My intentions were always good, but something got in the way. 

The woman doesn’t stay in bed wishing things were different. She gets up and searches. Her love moves her from passive concern to intentional action. In our families, the first step may be a phone call, a text message, an invitation, or, dare I say, an apology. It might even be as simple as asking, “How are you REALLY doing?” We may be tempted to wait for the other person to reach out first; that’s often human nature, but love is often willing to take the initiative. Taking the first step does not guarantee an immediate response. It simply shows that the relationship matters to us. 

Reflection: This week, reflect on: what first step have I been postponing? Am I waiting for someone else to make things right? How can I reach out in a simple yet sincere way? 

Then take the bold step of contacting someone in your family whom you identified in your heart. This week, pray that the Lord would give you the humility and courage to take that first step. Ask for His leading to reach out without demanding anything in return, and ensure your actions communicate genuine love.