The Ten-Minute Miracle
Mac Powell on creating meaningful moments
As Christ-followers, we’re continuously seeking ways to cultivate a Christ-centered home, especially in today’s fast-paced world. Singer, songwriter, producer and musician, Mac Powell spoke with Family Life Radio and shared insights from his experience as a dad to five children and a husband for almost 30 years.
Mac Powell emphasizes the importance of being intentional with family time. The family commits to having dinner together three to five times a week. It’s not just a meal on the go; it’s a moment where everyone pauses, sits down and genuinely shares life with one another.
Mac says, “You have to make those plans to be together and spend time together, especially when you’ve got kids that are at a certain age where they’re ready to go off to their friends or go to this event and do that.”
Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (ESV). The evil can be as subtle as neglecting quality time with our family. God calls us to be purposeful in how we live, and this includes the manner in which we nurture relationships within our family.
Ten Focused Minutes
Mac shared, “I’m not great at this, but I try to specifically spend at least 10 minutes a day, one on one with each of my children.”
You might think, Ten minutes? Is that all? Yet, if we look at Jesus’ life, His interactions were often brief but deeply impactful. Consider the Samaritan woman at the well.
In a relatively short conversation, Jesus transformed her life.
As recorded in John 4, their interaction was brief but filled with eternal significance.
In the same way, these ten focused minutes can be a powerful time of connection, providing an opportunity to talk, pray or simply be in each other’s presence. It becomes a sacred space for children to share their hearts and for parents to impart wisdom and love.
Mac continues, “I know that doesn’t sound like a lot, but ten minutes of just sitting down, talking face to face with each child, is an amazing time when I’m able to do that.”
Unity through Shared Meals
For many of us, the dinner table is one of the few places where the entire family gathers without distractions. It’s a stage set for meaningful conversations, and yes, for family prayers. Whether it’s a simple grace before meals or sharing prayer requests and thanksgivings, the dinner table can become an altar of sorts—a place where the family meets God collectively.
“We know that there are four or five times during the week where, as a family, we’re going to sit down and have dinner together. We’re not to have dinner in the car, on the way to baseball practice or any of that stuff. But these are the nights!”
The book of Acts describes the early Christian community as one that broke bread together (see Acts 2:46). These shared meals became an expression of their shared faith and community.
Empowering the Next Generation
One of the most insightful aspects of Mac’s family practice is involving his kids in making dinner. Mac said, “Some of the kids help their mother make dinner, and we’re all sitting there … It’s actually hard ometimes to come up with those times where you’re gonna be together.”
In the same way, Jesus empowered His disciples, entrusting them with responsibilities to further the kingdom of God.
When children are given roles and responsibilities, they’re more likely to feel a sense of ownership in the family dynamics and in their own faith journey.
Mac’s insights offer more than just practical tips for busy families; they present an approach that aligns with God’s desire for our homes. It’s not about perfection but intention. It’s not just about spending time but making that time count. It’s about transforming ordinary moments into holy ground, a meeting place between our families and God’s grace.
So, let’s focus on quality interactions, and create a family environment where Christ is the head of the household.
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