I'm always going home

Friends traveling on vacation this week enlisted my assistance and entrusted me with three valuable possessions for a few days: their two delightful dogs and a lovely home. I occasionally provide such sitting services and am routinely refreshed by the opportunity. Although pets guarantee interesting interaction given their individual needs and often amusing behaviors, it’s the physical house that reveals the true spirit of its residents. From the family’s many framed portraits filled with smiling faces to the refrigerator covered with calendars, coupons and to-do lists, visible signs of the love, joy and connectivity that make life most meaningful are readily evident (2 Samuel 7:29). In the stillness of a quiet house, one can also sense the presence of the Holy Spirit and be assured that God not only provides abundantly for His children, but also watches over them – regardless of where they may be (Deuteronomy 31:6). Perhaps we consider houses as merely brick and mortar, the physical construction of a place designed to contain all our “stuff.” Yet, a house itself is not nearly as important as the home we make for Jesus Christ when we invite Him into our hearts (1 Corinthians 6:19). Once that threshold is crossed, there’s no “leaving it all (or Him) behind.” While I do enjoy a change of scenery from time to time and don't mind sharing a blanket with two tiny yippers, I am comforted to know that no matter where I lay my head, I am always right at home.