I am fascinated by the implications of the Jesus’ description of the last days, especially His words, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold” (Matthew 24:12). I have concluded that when love waxes cold the family is affected first. The promise and warning found in Malachi 4:5, 6 comprises its theme:  "Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

We see nations at war with one another, and we remark how much they need the gospel.  Stories of looting and car bombs move us to give to missions so the gospel can change hears and minds.  So, yes, we know that the gospel changes lives.  then why do we seem to lock the gospel out of our homes?  Where did we get the idea that Jesus' words "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44) apply to our treatment of everyone except our spouse?

Jesus commanded us to forgive not seven times but seventy times seven (see Matthew 18:22).  We seem to have no problem with this as long as it does not refer to our attitude toward our parents.  In short, we apply the command that we love our enemies to everyone except members of our own family.  Experience has demonstrated that the most difficult place to be a Christian is at home.  However, if can't implement the principles of the gospel in our homes, we must question our ability to implement them anywhere.  Lord, Save my Family, pp. 10-11.