Season 3 Episode 54

In this episode, Vanessa breaks a family rule…no makeup before the age of fifteen. Once Claire gets over her initial anger, she explains the importance of family rules.

In Matthew 22, Jesus is talking to a crowd and a Pharisee asks him, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment (or rule) in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22:36-40

This is the foundation for our family rules…especially if you consider that the definition of “neighbor” includes family members. Beyond this, there are rules that we have to help the kids get through each day…

• There are rules that provide BALANCE – You can’t play video games all day…there are limits. – and rules that are for their HEALTH – You need to eat more fruits and vegetables than Oreos.
• There are rules for SAFETY – Look both ways when crossing the street before you reach the middle of the street. – and rules that teach RESPONSIBILITY – You have to do your chores before you can have access to any electronics.
• There are rules that teach LIFE SKILLS – Homework must be completed – neatly and accurately - before playing with friends. - and rules that teach MANNERS – You should always say “please” and “thank-you”…even to family members.
• Finally, there are rules that teach kids to follow the LAW – You cannot take anything without paying for it and it is still wrong even if you don’t get caught!

We need to set the foundation with our children as Jesus taught the crowd…we need to first teach our children to love the Lord and then their “neighbors.” Once the foundation is established, our children will more open and able to comply with the other rules.