All About the Home?

"A woman who creates a home does on a personal level what the Church does for Christ on a corporate level; and also what Christ does in His Father’s House on an eternal, heavenly level—She creates an environment that’s welcoming, nourishing, healing, and conducive to life and growth."- Mary Kassian

I read this quote and felt like it so aptly sums up my ministry. I enjoy learning about simplifying our home, reading financial wisdom, biblical parenting tips, and creative family night ideas. I want to learn from others who excel in those areas, not because that's what a "stay-at-home-mom" does, but because I see the value they have in creating a great home environment. It's not just about having a fun (and clean) home and good memories. It's about Jesus. In other words, I care for our home, but it's not all about the home, it's about pointing to Christ through it. I learn and grow in those areas (and many more) to create an environment that exudes Jesus and points us daily back to Him.

"The heart of her husband trusts in her,and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life."
I pray that Andy will come home from busy days and find a peaceful and fun place to recharge and go back out to serve again. This is exactly how I feel each Sunday after church. It's a place where we come together in worship and the Word and come away living it out through our daily lives. It is my heart when I'm cleaning before Andy comes home, making a meal, listening to his day, and praying with/for him before he leaves in the morning. I'm praying Andy will come away from our home knowing he is cared for, prayed for, valued, sincerely loved, helped, and wanted.


"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."
I pray that my boys will see Christ daily as I walk, talk, clean, teach, play, and pour into them and that our home will be a place where they gain life. I desire to live out a life of awe of God and self sacrifice towards my family daily in front of my children. I am horrible at this at times. But I dream that even my weak attempts to love God and others might help my children know Him and see the joy of His Word lived out. Oh, may our home be a place where they feel free to ask anything, are confident that they are loved and valued, experience joy daily, and learn more deeply over time who is truth and how to know Him.

"She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy."
I pray that we as a family would be generous givers who know that everything is God's and openhandedly give to anyone who has need. This is at times a painful struggle as I cling to things (ouch!) and miss true joy in Christ alone. But what a nourishing and beautiful glimpse of God it is when we actually obey in this area.


"She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness."
I'm praying God will give me grace and wisdom to work hard in my role in our home to create an environment that points to Him and never miss that my daily life is a sweet ministry. Daily, He gives me opportunities to seek Him, grow, love others, serve humbly, and share His love. What an honor and great responsibility I've been given. Praying I live it out well to His glory.

Comments

Amanda said…
i LOVE this post! i LOVE that you desire Jesus soooo much! I LOVE that you want to make your home your ministry! I LOVE your heart and the very things He is teaching you! I LOVE that you exceed in many of these desires already!!! I LOVE you, friend!!!!!
April 15, 2011 at 4:25 PM
Making the Most said…
your comment made me cry. a lot. thanks, friend:) love you.
April 15, 2011 at 4:43 PM
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