Two Homes

    This morning as I took my sunrise walk along Green Lake, the Holy Spirit was nudging me to take notice of two beautiful homes along the shore.  The first was so elegant and spacious, reminding me of a Southern mansion.  The charming white house with the large porch area overlooking the sparkling splendor of the lake was obviously a place where many have gathered. There were climbing trees and open lawn areas, and beautiful beds of exquisitely landscaped flowers.  I pictured children and puppies enjoying the open air to romp and play, chasing fireflies in the early June evenings. A hammock stretched between two stately trees, seeming to invite one to grab a book and rest awhile. The front porch had many comfortable-looking chairs that practically beckoned me to come and sit awhile—maybe to enjoy a glass of lemonade with some fine company. The wrought iron gate was flung wide open, sending the message that all are welcome here.  The pier also held multiple seating spaces and there was yet another circle of chairs around a nearby fire pit holding remnants of sweet fellowship moments from the past. Indeed this was a home exuding nothing but pure grace and hospitality.

Right next-door was another multimillion dollar home, but definitely with a different tale to tell. It was a lovely Tudor style, but lacking somewhat in the simple and stately elegance of the home next door. There was a sign identifying this house as a cottage. However, right beside the sign was second one saying, “Private property. Keep Out.” The pier was roped off with yet another Private Property sign. There was no doubt that only a few would be welcomed here.

As I took in the shocking difference between these next door properties, I was pondering how they represented two kinds of people—those with open hearts that say “welcome” and “join me”; and those that say “keep out!”  When the Father shares of His abundance do we close our hearts and say to ourselves that this outpouring belongs to me alone? Do I tell myself the story that I worked hard for those finances to be able to purchase such a regal home and therefore I get to choose who visits me there? Or, do I instead, out of gratitude for His goodness say, I have freely received from the Lord, come and taste with me to see that He is good?  I would hope that I would always want to share the blessings God has given to me. An open door, an invitation to all who care to join me seems so much more desirable. 

Two homes, two very different stories.