Published Monday, July 12, 2010 by Elisha Larsen
For better or for worse, we’ve always wanted a yard! Of course, the idea of having a yard usually seemed pleasant. You know, a place for the kids to play. A place for family and friends to gather. A place to lay out in the sun…the list goes on and on. What you don’t always think about is the work and the creatures that live there and if not controlled…take over, and it happens quickly!
When trying to keep up with our yard I am reminded of the human condition, the believers heart, the curse and at the same time, the incredible blessings found in God’s word. I’m reminded of the upkeep we all must have. It’s actually even kinda funny, because I am most aware of myself and aware of my standing with God when I am aware of what is going on in my yard. It all stems from discipline and discernment. I find when we are gone and my yard is neglected…well, so is my God and my time in His word. It’s so difficult sometimes to “keep up” with all your earthly relationships as well as your earthly disciplines and your time with God…or so it is the case with me. I am at my best spiritually when the things in my life (the things I’ve been given stewardship over) are reasonably in order. I am then also reminded that God is a God of order and I am a creature created in His image. I also believe that we are all created to exemplify different aspects of God’s character. So, where I may find spiritual application in taking care of my home and keeping a schedule…I am aware that others (who may exemplify another of God’s characteristics) may find their spiritual application and grown in other things. In music, in contentment or in their relationships with others. I think it also true that each of us as spiritual beings belonging to the Lord will find comfort and growth in each and every characteristic of God and we should work these out in our own lives if there is an area we lack…for we are not in this alone. However, I find I am best able to do this if first, I am organized in my home and in my heart.
Isn’t God good to show us things through many avenues? It truly amazes me.
So even among the snails, ants, mites, weeds, fungus and white blythe we have been able to once again get control :-)
Here are some pictures of us busy about our yard. Making it nice for ourselves, for our landlords and ultimately for the owner of it all…the house, the yard and our souls…Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory!
So…on a lighter note…here we are!
