108:365

when i was in high school God used several families to plant seeds in my unbelieving heart. these were Godly families that lived to glorify God in all aspects of their lives. i didn't know why they were different at the time, but i knew i wanted what they had. God used them in a big way to bring me closer to Him. they had no idea this was the case, or that i was even paying attention to things like - them eating together as a family, respecting/loving each other, and having an open home.

i have always wanted to have that kind of home, a welcoming home - a shelter from the storms that often come in life. a peaceful home that is well-ordered (a stark contrast to the way i grew up).

i consider it a privilege to be a homemaker, but this wasn't always the case. i remember a time, sitting in a doctor's office trying to think of a better way to say "homemaker." i felt like i needed to say something like: "homemaker, but i do have a college degree". i was caring more about what people thought than what God thought of me.

so as i begin to make a home in a new house, it is my prayer that it will be a place where guests don't feel like strangers, but more like family. that i will remember - hospitality is not about impressing others with great decorating, gourmet cooking, or a clean house. it's about welcoming, serving, and loving people in the name of Jesus and for the sake of the gospel. it's about a willingness to be used by God at all times, not just when it's convenient. to focus on people, rather than things. the gospel really is presented through our lives, not just our words.