Conference Talk:
For more information on this topic read “Children,” by Elder Neil L. Andersen, Ensign, Nov 2011, 28.
Thought:
The family is ordained of God. Families are central to our Heavenly Father’s plan here on earth and through the eternities. (Elder Neil L. Andersen, “Children,” Ensign, Nov 2011, 28.)
Song:
“Families Can Be Together Forever,” Children’s Songbook, p. 188
Scripture:
"And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me" (Mark 9:36–37).
Lesson:
Watch this thought-provoking trailer for Irreplaceable, the Movie, about the role of the family in society today:
Tell your family that Paul gives some great council for specific family members in Colossians 3:18–25. Take turns reading verses 18–24 and have your family watch for the counsel for the different family members. Ask:
• -What should wives do? (Verse 18)
• -What should husbands do? (Verse 19)
• -What should children do? (Verse 20)
• -How should fathers deal with their children? (Verse 21)
Read verse 25 to your family and ask them how they feel when someone in the family is mean to them. According to verse 25, what is the reward for those who are mean? Encourage them to be kind to each other and build family unity thus becoming a Christlike family.
(Dennis H. Leavitt and Richard O. Christensen, Scripture Study for Latter-day Saint Families: The New Testament, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006], p. 249.)
Activity:
Watch Irreplaceable the Movie (available at Deseret Book stores and on deseretbook.com). Attend the movie together as a family. Afterward, discuss what things you learned about why families are important, even for those who are not LDS. Think of ways you can each support your family.
Note: The documentary is suitable for children ages 15 and up.