On House + Home.

We have lived in our new home for over six months now.  Being in and caring for my home brings me a lot of joy, so the (albeit slow) process of settling in and nesting has been so fun.  I really love the decorating part.  Over the years, I've experienced a lot of confusion pertaining to how valuable or worthless this enjoyment of decorating is.  Obviously, in the scheme of things, it's pretty superficial and not of great eternal value!  My wise husband has encouraged me in conversations along these lines to develop a more robust theology of the matter and thoughtfully consider what place it has in the Christian life.

I hope to include some things I learn regarding this, as well as house pictures/decorating ideas, as time goes on.

I found this prayer about a year ago and have not forgotten its wise words.  So, let's start here:

Lord God, our home is among the most precious gifts we receive in this life.

We realize this all the more as we remember our Lord Jesus. He set aside home and family. Having no place to lay His head throughout His ministry, he chose to sojourn among those He came to save. We prayerfully invite Him to dwell in our earthly abode even as He continually invites us by Word and Sacrament to dwell forever in our heavenly home, which He prepares for us.

Make us ever grateful for this shelter from life’s storms.

Keep this house always the home of comfort, joy, peace, and forgiveness.

According to Your will, protect this home from the spiritual assaults of Satan, but likewise make our home a fortress against the calamities of nature and the wickedness of sinful man.

Grant us the virtue of hospitality, the joy of harmonious living, and the blessing of gathering around Your Word and bringing our families’ prayers before You.

May all who dwell in our home be blessed by Your presence and Your peace,

and may all who go forth give thanks for the grace they receive from You, through us, Your dear children

We receive Your loving kindness in our home as a reminder of the eternal home we inherit through Your Son, Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray.
        Amen.