Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Mike Smith:
This week, Mary Jo Tate has joined me to talk about homeschooling as a single parent. Mary Jo, you’ve given a lot of encouragement to the single parents listening—what about those around them? How can others in the church, community, or family come alongside single parents?

Mary Jo Tate:
Remember EMT: encouragement, material help, and time. First, encouragement: pray faithfully for single parent families and offer godly, wise counsel. Praise the positive things you see in their lives, and encourage them not to become weary in doing good.

Second, offer material help. Single parent families often struggle financially, and homeschooling limits the time they can devote to earning a living. Donating cash or gift cards can make a tremendous difference, and really help relieve the burden. You can also help by sharing material things such as clothing, household items, curriculum and other books, Christmas gifts, or even firewood.

Third, give the gift of your time. Help with home repairs or car maintenance. Babysit, tutor, or mentor the children. Show hospitality by including single parents and their children in special events and holiday celebrations.

James 1:27 includes looking after widows and orphans in the definition of pure and faultless religion. Ask yourself how you can show God’s love to a single parent family today.

Mike:
Mary Jo this truly has been encouraging this week. Thanks for joining us! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.