(This post was written by Chuck Carringer, Pastor of Family Ministries)

It’s that time of year. The weather starts getting a little warmer and the idea of getting rid of some clutter seems appealing. We have a storage room in our basement and if we don’t remove the junk at least once a year there is no space. It’s also a great time to do some spring cleaning to benefit our marriages and families. The first quarter of 2011 is in the books. Many of us started with intentional plans for our families for this year. How are you doing? Clutter in our lives can take over and crowd our best intentions. Let’s get rid of some junk! Consider the following spring cleaning ideas for marriages and families:

1. Reduce schedule clutter: I interact with a lot of families. All of us seem to be super busy – most of the time. We are responsible for our family’s schedule. The default on scheduling is that left unguarded, our calendars overflow. What activities are you doing that are unnecessary and take you away from your family? Calendar family time just like any other high value appointment. The reality is that we all make time for what is most important to us. Let’s make room in our schedules for our marriages and families.

 

1. Remove Electronic Clutter:  I enjoy the advances in technology. Technology allows us to stay connected to our families; however, when together, technology often causes a gap in our connectedness. We look at our screens rather than at each other. Let’s remember that our technological devices are tools that work for us. Create some technology-free times.

 

1. Junk the Status Quo: Spice it up some. Parents, surprise your kids with a fun family activity. Husbands, plan a weekend get-away for you and your wife.  When was the last time you went on a picnic? Go to a baseball game or to the marina to feed the ducks. Trick your kids to come outside and squirt them with the hose. They will scream and laugh! You will have made a great family memory. Get out of your routine.

Let’s do some spring cleaning and enjoy the sensation of clearing out some clutter and junk.

What do you need to get rid of for the good of your marriage and/or family?