Old Potosi!  Gracefully aging, standing strong amidst weather and years.  Still stunning.  Still warm.  Still respectable in charm and character!

With some love and up-keep, these "ladies" have watched at least a century come and go, sheltering families and welcoming friends. They continue to welcome our eyes and smiles as they are both the foundation and decoration of this quaint town.

A word comes to mind:  Integrity.  Aging can bring battle scars, a few wrinkles, repairs and needed re-do's, but integrity continues to be ageless!  Doing the best with what we have been given is always something that turns heads and demands a nod from all who recognize it.

These homes have been lovingly cared for throughout the years.  Perhaps some better than others, but the maintenance has certainly been there for them to stand so stately under the shadow of the trees that shelter them.  Each one's caretaker has well provided for their honor.  

We too have an incredible Caretaker.  Though we age and carry the marks of life and its challenges, when sheltered beneath the care of our God, our integrity remains.  When we allow Him to work in and through us, He makes us more beautiful as the years go by.

Of course there is the need for restoration and rehab from time to time.  Life's battles and storms tend to weather us.  We simply cannot stand against the heaviness of the years beating against us without God's loving hand that buffs off the tarnish, re-sands and refinishes both our exterior and our interior!  He sweeps our houses, shines our windows and makes sure our roofs are repaired when the rain sneaks in!

​Sometimes He even adds extra color and decor that bring added attention and admiration!  There are certain gifts and talents that stand out for whatever reason, and serve as compliments, but also as blessings to many.  There are the subtle, quiet beautiful gifts that ooze of warmth, kindness and strength.  

Carry what you have, realizing that is but by our Master's strength and care that we are able to represent and reflect the beauty that He alone gives and maintains.  

Thank Him often for the treasures He allows in our lives.  Thank Him also for the storms, though they beat hard on us from time to time, we learn to respect and respond in a way that pleases Him.  Thank Him for the gold that comes from the fires of life and for the promise of the sun in the midst of the thunder and downpours.

Integrity.  Let Him be the maintenance Man and Keeper of the doors and windows of our "house".  Agree with the still small voice that tells us how to listen and obey.  Let wisdom and patience be what we favor as God does the needed washings and cleanings of our structures and heart.  Do not resist His voice, His tender touch or His desire to remodel us when necessary.  

May we, like these homes remain steadfast and under the shelter of His very capable wings!  May we take the love we are given and wrap it around all who grace our porches and hallways.  May our faces be aglow with His wisdom and glorious radiance.  And may our lives leave a legacy of what belonging to Him produces in the long haul of the journey of life!