Cultural Perspective on Children

We don't allow the culture to instruct us in how to think.

Rather, we do, and we shouldn't.  

As I trust in Christ, He does make me a new type of creation, apparently. At least, that is what I hear.  That new creation is not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind, in light of the great mercies of God.

The white European birth rate, which has plummeted below the recoverable line in some countries is pointing out to us one of the ramifications of thinking from an Enlightenment perspective, allowing the culture to instruct our priorities, rather than allowing the King to inform us of his priorities for His beloved sons and daughters.

This quote, from Rachel Jankovic at Desiring God is a sobering way of putting the underlying priorities of the culture around us, and unfortunately the same priorities rule in the church. Click on the link to read the whole article.  It is worthwhile, I think.

"The truth is that years ago, before this generation of mothers was even born, our society decided where children rank in the list of important things. When abortion was legalized, we wrote it into law.

Children rank way below college. Below world travel for sure. Below the ability to go out at night at your leisure. Below honing your body at the gym. Below any job you may have or hope to get. In fact, children rate below your desire to sit around and pick your toes, if that is what you want to do. Below everything. Children are the last thing you should ever spend your time doing.

If you grew up in this culture, it is very hard to get a biblical perspective on motherhood, to think like a free Christian woman about your life, your children. How much have we listened to partial truths and half lies? Do we believe that we want children because there is some biological urge, or the phantom “baby itch”? Are we really in this because of cute little clothes and photo opportunities? Is motherhood a rock-bottom job for those who can’t do more, or those who are satisfied with drudgery? If so, what were we thinking?"

Jankovic, Rachel. www.desiringgod.org. "Motherhood Is a Calling (And Where Your Children Rank.<http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/motherhood-is-a-calling-and-where-your-children-rank#.Th9FVu89gWY.facebook>. Accessed 16JULY2011.