Plough Quarterly No. 34 - Generations

The past two decades have seen a boom in family history services that combine genealogy with DNA testing, but this is less a sign of a robust connection to past generations than of its absence. The New Testament tells us that biological kinship is less important than the family called into being by God's promises, and that heredity and blood kinship are no longer the primary source of our identity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2022
Publisher: Plough Publishing House

We are born with a deep yearning for our roots and a profound desire to leave a lasting legacy behind. Over the past two decades, there has been a significant surge in family history services that integrate genealogy with DNA testing. While this trend may suggest a stronger connection to our ancestors, it actually reflects a lack of engagement with our past generations. Across society, we witness a pervasive sense of rootlessness accompanied by a cult of youth that believes there is little to be learned from the wisdom and experiences of our elders. The tragic events witnessed in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted this devaluation of the elderly. However, it is important to recognize that the breakdown of intergenerational connections affects not only the elderly but also the younger generations. When young individuals are deprived of a sense of belonging to a larger story beyond themselves, they may turn to other sources of identity, ranging from trivial to harmful.

While biological kinship holds significance, the New Testament emphasizes that the family created by God's promises holds greater importance. Jesus asks his listeners, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" He then answers, "Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, and sister, and mother." In this vast intergenerational family, we are bound by a bond of brotherhood and sisterhood with believers from every era of human history, past, present, and yet to be born. While our biological families and inheritances still hold value, heredity and blood kinship are no longer the primary determinants of our identity.

To address the issue of rootlessness, we can explore various perspectives and solutions. Matthew Lee Anderson argues that even in the era of IVF, no one has the right to have a child. He emphasizes the importance of responsible parenthood and the need to consider the impact of bringing a new life into the world. Emmanuel Katongole provides insight into how African Christians are responding to ecological degradation by returning to their roots. He highlights the significance of traditional knowledge and practices in preserving the environment and promoting sustainable development. Louise Perry expresses concerns about young environmentalists who may lack a deep connection to their roots and the natural world. She encourages them to embrace their heritage and explore the interconnectedness between humans and the environment.

In conclusion, the past two decades have witnessed a shift towards a more individualized and detached society. However, the importance of intergenerational connections cannot be overstated. By valuing and nurturing these connections, we can foster a sense of belonging, wisdom, and sustainability for future generations. Let us strive to bridge the gap between generations, to learn from our elders, and to create a better world for all.

Dimension: 260 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636080741