By Kathy Green
St. Ambrose, an early Church Father who lived in the 4th century, is believed to have said, “Our door is faith; if it is strong enough, the whole house is safe.” As homeschoolers, that quote embodies so much of what is at the heart of our desire to homeschool. We want our homes to be a place of security, love, learning, peace and spiritual growth. For most of us, that means our home must be a refuge where the presence of God is truly felt and faith is lived out.
In practical terms, there are many ways that families of faith can do this. We can pray and worship as a family. We can read and study God’s Word and commit it to memory. We can celebrate feasts and holy days. We can read about the heroes of our faith. These are all excellent ways to pass on a rich and meaningful, faith-filled legacy to our children and grandchildren.
But none of these proactive measures are a guarantee that our children will hold fast to the faith of their family, and maybe even a long lineage of ancestors. In the end, they must choose God for themselves. For parents, this is often a cause for concern and much prayer, as well as a motivator to actively do all we can do.
Billy Graham once said, “The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.” Yes, we want our children to be educated and financially secure, but the lasting impact we intrinsically desire for them is spiritual, not material. Besides those practical steps we mentioned before, what more can we do?
Back to our heroes of faith. What is it about saints and heroes that intrigues us and beckons us to know more about their lives? Could it be that we are drawn to their holiness? Each lived out an exemplary testimony to a genuinely holy life, showing us that holiness is possible for all who trust in God.
In a tangible way, we must become that holy person for our children and grandchildren. The real-life hero who prays, persists in faith, and loves God throughout all of life’s challenges must be clearly visible to them. C.S. Lewis wrote, “Faith is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.” Life has its ups and downs. But a deeply rooted faith carries us forward through it all. By example, all those who are watching can look to you and see what will truly sustain them and help them grow in their own spiritual life. Your own holiness is a key to their salvation.
Bring faith to life in your home through your own example. Actively live your faith as a model to be emulated. Share it consistently, naturally, and personally as teachable moments arise. Pray unceasingly and trust in the love and mercy of God to keep your household safe.
Not sure about what steps to take toward a more faith-filled life? Start here!
Kathy Green has been homeschooling children and grandchildren for 45 years, and is HOME's co-founder along with her husband, Ed.