Real Hope: Identity in ChristSample

Identity

The 2021 census results showed that, of the 5.55 million families in Australia, over one million are single-parent families. It also showed that in four out of five cases, the solo parent is the mother.

Let me say well done to solo-parenting mums, dads and other caregivers, and to those who are helping care for children who do not have loving parents.

Despite all that’s being done for children, there’s an increasing concern being raised through study results that shows a lack of a positive father role is negatively impacting children’s wellbeing. I’ve recently met several solo mums who’ve worked hard to help their children have trusted male role models in their lives.

These mums told me they have valued the concept of God as a faithful Father and have introduced their children to the God of the Bible. They said the concept of a loving Father, a God who created each child with unique value, seems to have had a settling effect on their children. Their identity becomes secure in the knowledge they are loved by a heavenly Father, one they can always talk to in prayer. Today we pray for all children that they would know they are valued and loved.

Written by KATH HENRY