Glean Ideas from the Creator

Our second Saturday in Phoenix was the beginning of a new tradition. We have made every Saturday evening a time for family and refreshment. The photo on the right was taken by our 16 year old son from our backyard. The older boys and John were out back with the grill cooking out burgers as the sun was setting. It was one of the most breath-taking sights I have ever seen.



John came running into the house calling me to come see this gorgeous sight. The entire family just stood admiring this simple beauty. It was as if God was inviting us to just stop, take in a deep breath and enjoy this tremendous gift together. How hospitable our Lord is in that He would provide such a beautiful portrait of His love for our little family cookout.

We can learn so much about creating inviting spots in our own homes by observing the beauty of our Creator. Look at the back drop of this photo. The colors are warm, soothing and inviting. The accessories of beautiful palm trees adds a simple touch to frame the inviting masterpiece.

God's colors and accessories have flawless harmony and balance.We can obtain such wonderful ideas without even having to search inside of decorating magazines and books. We can simply look out the window or take a walk.

Likewise our homes should have the same balance and flow created by use of color and tasteful accessories. Avoid colors that scream and stick with hues that provide warmth, love,peace and welcome. Ask God to help you as you choose color combinations for that special room you want to update. It was first His idea to make things pleasant for us to look at.

Whether our home is decorated elaborately or simply, remember it expresses our personalilty, our likes,tastes and various styles. Let love be your message as you express yourself in your home. Be free in allowing the Lord to be reflected through you. Take a moment. Look out your window or take a walk on your favorite path. Stir His gift within you.

Morning Bagel:God made all kinds of trees grow from the ground,trees beautiful to look at and good to eat. Genesis 2:9 (The Message Bible)

Daily Hug: Lord, Your creation is incredible. How I admire all the wonderful things you made. You are so loving to make a place that is filled with such beauty. I so appreciate that You put much thought and detail into all You made so we could see and experience your love. You really went to a lot of trouble for us God, but I know you enjoyed all the work you did.

Likewise Lord, I pray that you would help me to have this mind, Your mind ,as I create an atmosphere of beauty for my family. Thank you that we do not have to have a lot of money or "know how" to do this. You have already provided. Stir the gifts within me Lord and give me fresh ideas to show my family my love for them. Give me simple inventions that even my children can get involved in so we can do these things together and that they may see You have also deposited creativity within them.

In Jesus Name, Amen