(The image, The Sculptor's Hands, was created by ChatGPT)

 

Begun. Continuing. Complete.

By Dr. Al Hearne II

 

Picture a family gathered around the dinner table. The light is warm, and there’s a quiet sense of gratitude and connection. It’s more than just a meal, it’s a reminder of God’s design and purpose. In Quarter 1, we learned that we are Made by God to Grow, that He shapes us with intention so our growth doesn’t stop with ourselves. Every moment, even ordinary ones like this, is part of how God teaches us to reflect His love.

In Quarter 2, the main message is clear: God’s love continues the work He began in us. This is evident in daily routines, such as gathering at the dinner table, where sharing love and kindness reveals God’s ongoing work. Each week, as we reflect His love, we remember that His work in us is ongoing, receiving, extending, expressing, and celebrating God’s love together.

Love shapes our identity as God renews our hearts. We are formed by God’s love. As this love takes root, it propels us outward with the mission to share it with others. Moving from being 'created' to 'sent' embodies a story of divine purpose, prompting us to reflect God's love in action and reach into the lives of others.

Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

God’s good work of love in your life is not a one-time event; it is lifelong. When Paul wrote to the Philippians, he wanted believers to know that salvation is both a beginning and a journey. Jesus died so we can be forgiven. That love began Paul’s “good work,” an unbroken work that continues until Jesus Christ returns.

Think of a sculptor with a block of marble. Each hammer strike removes what doesn’t belong, revealing what’s inside. It takes time, patience, and trust in the artist. That’s how God works with us. Day by day, His Spirit chips away pride, fear, and selfishness so the likeness of Christ shows. We may feel unfinished, but His love continues to shape our lives.

Philippians 1:6 assures us that God finishes what He starts. Our role is to trust Him and reflect His love daily, knowing nothing can stop us from loving others. Jesus could return at any moment. Until then, we live as people in progress, proof of a God whose love never quits. Which rough edge might God be smoothing in you today?

God made you to grow in His love and to show that love in everything you do.

Application

This week, remind your family that God is working in each of you. To apply this, set aside a specific time each day, such as at breakfast or dinner, for each family member to briefly share how they have seen God's love in their life. Identify a "good work" God has started, like forgiveness or kindness, and thank Him together for never giving up. To support this habit, set a daily phone reminder to prompt the conversation. This structure helps integrate these meaningful talks into your routine.

To make this truth real in your home, use how your family best gives and receives love. Point out how you see God working in each other. Serve one another in small, thoughtful ways that demonstrate His love. Spend time discussing God's faithfulness. Share simple notes to remind each other that God is working. For example, 'I noticed your patience with your brother today; God is growing kindness in you.' These touches make God's love tangible in daily life. 

With little ones, keep it simple. Give them a hug and say, “God is happy when we share.”  With elementary kids, invite them to help with something, like setting the table, and point out, “That’s one way you’re showing God’s love.”  With teens, ask how they’d like to show love this week. Encourage them to come up with their own ideas or write a short note to someone who needs encouragement.

Reflection – Ask your children to reflect upon the following questions:

Before you start, ask your children, "What’s something you've waited for that finally happened?" This helps them connect patience to God’s timing. Then share a real moment from your life when you waited on God, a season that didn’t make sense at the time but later showed how He shaped your heart and faith.

Then ask your family:

• When Paul talks about “the good work” God began, what do you think he means?
• How does it help you to know that God’s love will keep working in us until Jesus comes back?
• What are some ways we can show that same kind of steady love to each other this week?

Growth in Action

Transformation takes time. God’s work in you is steady, not rushed. Think of it as God working at the pace of a seed, not a stopwatch. Try these as a family:

• For younger children, use clay or playdough to form shapes. Talk about how the clay changes as you mold it, and say, “God is shaping us the same way.”
• With older children: Discuss an area in life that feels "unfinished." Acknowledge that some topics may be hard and encourage a gentle, supportive approach. Listen with empathy and offer prayerful support. Pray together for God to keep working in that area with His patience and love.
• As a family: Write Philippians 1:6 on a note card and place it somewhere visible, on the fridge, mirror, or car dashboard, as a daily reminder that God’s love never stops working.

Growth comes through God’s Word. When we allow Scripture to teach, reprove, correct, and train us, we grow into completeness—equipped for every good work that God has designed us to do.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for beginning good works in us through Jesus Christ. Thank You that Your love never stops. Shape our hearts each day to reflect Your love, patience, and grace. Help us to grow in your love each day and to share it with others.  Help our family see Your hand at work in our lives. We trust You to complete what You began. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.