Finding Home

But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. ~ Hebrews 11:16 NLT

My husband and I have recently come home from an extended trip through Scotland and Wales. We learned a great deal about those beautiful, welcoming, resilient people, their history, trials and triumphs and loved the lush green countryside.  We met new people and discovered what we shared in common and, sometimes, were challenged by our differences. We are so thankful to have had the opportunity, especially after the isolation of Covid.

But, we also are very happy to be home again. There is no place like home.  Home is where we are known, accepted and loved for who we are.  Though at times they may seem boring, our daily routines can comfort us and give our lives a certain significance.  There is something about home that fills one with peace.  Home is where our roots can grow deep and anchor us, even in the most challenging times.

During our travels, we met folks who were searching for home, though they may not have known it.  Have you met people like that?  There is something restless, sad, sometimes even hopeless about them.  No matter their age, they still have not discovered why they were created and given life.  Those we met who did know that God created them for a purpose were exhilarating to be around.  We noticed that they were willing to make sacrifices in order to pursue their dreams of making the world a better place.  They knew who they were and who they belonged to.  Their lives had purpose.  In a real sense, they had found their home.

Home is a place we can rest from all the striving and be content with who we are and what God has given us.  Trusting in God, in what he says and who he says we are, provides the environment of home, of true rest.  Remember what Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28? “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Only in coming home to Jesus will we find true rest for our souls.

Have you found that rest?  I pray you have found your home, a home in the welcoming, compassionate, yet powerful arms of Jesus.

Dear friends, may all the restlessness and fear vanish as you trust in Jesus as your true home.  No matter where you may roam, Jesus, his Spirit, will be with you. May the roots of your heart grow deep into God’s love, filling you with his peace, so that you will able to rest in who he created you to be and in his plans for you. Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ June 14, 2022