Big families are wonderful. A lot of lessons are learned by a child who has to share and has to pull his weight to help out instead of being treated as a cute little poodle that one dresses in the latest designer clothes.
Especially when we think of what Christ did for us!!
1. He gave himself freely. (We can put to rest all of the notions that the Jews killed Jesus, He gave himself freely.)
2. He gave himself totally. Even unto death. Also proclaiming a life of service to others! (Should be in the marriage vows -- till death do us part.)
3. He gave himself faithfully. "Father, not my will, but your will be done." "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." etc.
4. He gave himself fruitfully. Christ died on the Cross to give us life everlasting and to redeem the first sin of the first couple, Adam and Eve. Also to triumph over the devil.
So a couple who practices these four things -- should take heart! They are following in Christ's footsteps!
To hear these reflections (and more) of Pope John Paul II through the explanation of Christopher West -- take a Theology of the Body class. They are wonderful!!!!!