My Father’s House

““Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” John‬ ‭14:1-3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

I think this passage really hits home for me because I am awaiting being able to move to my new home in New Mexico with my husband. He went before me to prepare the place for me. I’ve had people ask about that decision. But I trust him and he knows me well enough to know what I would like and what I want.

As I wrote about this, I was thinking about mansions that is how I learned this passage is a child. I thought about mansions versus rooms. There is a time that mansions would excite me. The idea of a big giant house that was designed just as I would like. After Covid, and being separated for more than two months from my husband, the idea of being in God’s house in a room He prepared for me is much more appealing.

As a child, I wanted my own room. The youngest of five, I had to wait my turn. A room means I can have my own space. Yet it also means I can still be included. God designed and prepared my room in His house. He wants to include me, to keep me close, and be available if I need Him.

It also means a lot to me because I am particular about who I let stay in my house. It is mostly family, because I feel the need to make sure everything is spotless when others come to my house. I don’t feel like I have the gift of hospitality. I don’t like small talk. I like deep conversation or silence. I love to serve, and am okay with preparing and cleaning up. It’s the stuff in the middle that trips me up. With family, we can just be. I can do what needs to be done, and know they can be comfortable doing whatever they like while they are there. God invited me as family to stay in His house. He wants me to feel comfortable with Him.

The other thing is, at my house my family is always welcome. Whether I am there or not, my door is always open to them. There is always a place for them, regardless of what else is going on. If I know their coming, the sheet are freshly washed, and I plan a special meal. God makes His children a priority. He’s been getting the room perfect for my arrival (and yours too). He’s making all my favorites, because He is a good Father.

Prayer – Jesus, I thank You for going to prepare a place for me, in Your house. Thank You for including me in Your plans, for calling me to be a part, because you know too often I felt rejected and excluded, but You have a place for me.