I’ve been trying to wrap my mind around the beautiful words and ideas in this book. It was the perfect way to start off the new year– full of inspiration for how to make our homes special and full of love and Jesus for our families.
As I’ve said before, I’ve always loved “home design” and creating beautiful spaces. But, I always thought it was a bad thing to want my house to be pretty and cozy. I had never before thought of God DESIGNING the earth– not REALLY thought about it. To think about the beautiful garden that he created for Adam and Eve to live in. How could we ever look around at the beauty around us and not believe that God loves beauty. The trees are beautiful. The veins on a leaf are such a beautiful design. Look closely at a flower. It’s all beautiful, and it was all crafted by the hand of God!
I think that my favorite quote was: “When someone once asked me just what it was that my parents did that made me believe in God, without even thinking I said, ‘I think it was French toast on Sunday mornings and coffee and Celtic music and discussions and candlelight on the evenings . . .’ Because in those moments I tasted and saw the goodness of God in a way I couldn’t ignore.” – Sarah
Wow. If I can cultivate a home culture that makes it so my children can’t help but believe that God is real… it’s just incredible to think about. If my home can feel so inviting and people know that they are welcome here, then I’ve done something right.
“If you want your children to grow up loving what is true, beautiful, and good, your whole home should reflect that wholeness.” Sarah. I want my home to reflect the goodness of God. I want it to be a quiet place where we can meet God in prayer and study scripture. I want it to be the place where we feel less busy and overwhelmed. This should be the place where we can “think on these things”.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
This book left me feeling so inspired and encouraged to stay the course with my children. Our home life is going to point them to Jesus or make them turn away. It’s not all about beautiful THINGS. Our attitudes, traditions, etc. should share the love of God.
Since the book is divided into two parts– the second being focused on each month of the year– I plan to re-read each month. Hopefully it will keep me inspired, and possibly give me some ideas if I feel “stuck”.
Now, it is your turn! If you read the book with us, or have read it in the past, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
What was your favorite quote or passage? Why?
How did this book make you feel?
Do you agree or disagree with the main focus of the book?
What aspects of this story can you relate to?
If you haven’t already read The Life Giving Home, I can’t recommend it enough! Also, don’t forget about February’s book The Magnolia Story!