A new thing we are working on as a family is:  PP.

The children laugh when I remind them to “PP,” or ask if they are “PPing.”

PP stands for Pursue Peace, and it is something we are called to as Christians.

Pursuing peace requires a dying away of our flesh as we lay aside our own interest for the interest of others. We choose actions not based on our natural inclinations, but on a desire to glorify God and to esteem others better than ourselves. It is one of the ways we can reflect the image of Christ.

I ask the children to define PP and they give this definition with hand motions: “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18)

I remind them that their time at home is the training ground for the rest of their life. They need to learn to think like a Christian and live like a Christian amidst the constant relationships with their siblings.

Perhaps there’s no greater classroom than the family to practice this task set before us. At least I know there are plenty of opportunities to PP in a day within the home walls.

Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. (Psalm 34:14)

Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. (Romans 14:19)

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)

Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. (1 Peter 3:11)