Living with Art & Joyce. August 26, 2015

It has been somewhat of an adjustment being "homeless"; surely not from a lack of kindness or love shown, but rather because there is something about human nature that wants to know "you can always go home!"  In a transition such as ours, it becomes tempting to feel a little insecure and somehow without foundation.  I repeat - it is human nature that teaches us these things!  In the midst of this change, I am seeking to take "schooling" from my heavenly Father who has assured me that our "home" is in Him.  We are never alone and never without when we allow Him to take up residence in our heart.  When He lives in us, He in return, becomes our instant provision.  

As we were contemplating how we might juggle leaving one house and not closing on another for another 3 1/2 weeks, His provision came through in the form of generous family offering to share their home with us.  Though humbling, we knew it was a gracious and Godly gift - a sacrifice on their part that they did not have to make, but willingly did.  With grateful hearts we arrived at their house around midnight, after a week-long packing/moving/cleaning marathon.  We were exhausted and stretched physically and mentally far beyond our comfort zones.  

The room in the photo above met us with soft glowing lights, our mattress set up and made, complete with mints on the pillows.  Our luggage had been placed near our bed, towels displayed in the bathroom, and a second bedroom and living area beautifully arranged for our daughter who lives with us.  The rooms were perfectly welcoming and simply beautiful...all lovingly offered with our needs in mind.  

I was overwhelmed with gratitude.  We all stood amazed at the goodness of our heavenly Father and the family of God who had all opened their arms and hearts so fully to us.  It has helped me to get a glimpse of what God's "church" can truly be.  In the light of imperfections that infiltrate Christianity, there is a bright beam of clarity here in how our Lord might want us to "act".  What if we all were so sensitive in offering our hearts or homes - or love?  I am thankful for those examples still listening to that still, small voice.  As a result, we have learned to depend on Him just a little bit more.  We have more fully trusted that He loves us enough to call us by name and be our shelter and provider.

Thank you, Lord.  Thank you, dear family.