"Blogging Vacation" has come to an end. The last few weeks have been busy yet, richly blessed! Today, is a beautiful Fall day in KS. The wind is blowing, the leaves are falling and the trees are arrayed in the most delightful colors! I have two apple spice candles burning that add to the yummy aroma of the home. Sarah-Grace blessed us with home made banana bread this morning. The smells remind all that live within these walls that Fall has arrived! Beth-Joy has been busy all morning working on her violin. The melody from her violin welcomes a spirit of thanksgiving as she plays some of our favorite hymns. My boys are strong and manly, busy doing all the farm chores that must be completed before winter finds us. They are enjoying their new archery range. What fun to look out my front window and see, back in the trees, my mighty men, practicing skills they hope will help them in their hunting adventures. My big girls have helped me harvest all the Summer blessings. This last week we put up 3 gallons of Carmel Apple Butter made from the apples here on the farm.
Memories are made whether we try or not. I suggest that we must make memories on purpose. To be mindful of the great challenge set before us and to greet it each day equipped in His grace! We must remember that as handmaidens to the Lord's people it is our duty to cultivate homes unusual to the world. Homes where children are trained in Godliness, homes where children are seen and treated as blessings not burdens. homes that are safe- emotionally, spiritually and physically. Homes where children are invited to play as children. Where girls are encouraged to be 'mommies' and boys are encouraged to be 'mighty men' like daddy. Homes where every member despite their weaknesses, strengths, talents or struggles are treated as critical to the success of the home. Homes where life is cherished, where love is practiced and where tongues are bridled. Homes where joyful songs are heard, the Bible is read as the most important book of the home and not just on holidays. Homes where our husbands find an oasis from the world and it's troubles, homes where the stranger finds a peace they have never felt before, and where we offer cups of refreshment for the weary Saints that cross our path. Creating such homes come from a lifetime of experience, prayer and devotion to the Lord. They are not homes that have been manufactured, manipulated or copied.
Dear Sisters, I encourage you to make memories with your children on purpose. Take time to protect your family from the distractions that keep you from being able to create the home you know the Lord wants you to offer His people! It is such a rewarding experience. Enjoy your calling dear friend for you are blessed!
With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood
No comments:
Post a Comment