Yesterday morning I had my head in the sink, washing my hair and my husband stepped near and said, “Oh, no. They weren’t supposed to be here today.” My heart jumped.
“Who? Who’s here?”
“The exterminator. He was supposed to go to the church today, but the guy’s here now. Just close the door. He won’t come in here.”
Relief washed over me. I was so thankful that my husband was there to answer the door when he could have already left for his appointment at hand. I was thankful, too, that I had started the day early. I’d had my devotions, then fixed my husband’s breakfast so he could head out. The dishes had been done (by him), and I had made the bed, emptied the trash cans and started a load of laundry. Everything had been given “the morning once-over” and I was relieved that this man – okay, just the exterminator – but a guest, would not find my home turned upside down! Some mornings at 8:50 that’s exactly what he would have found! Sometimes dishes are in the sink, the dirty laundry is sorted on the laundry room floor, trash cans are waiting to be emptied, and the bed unmade. Yes, I was thankful that I had gotten up on this day and faithfully done what needed to be done when this surprise visitor came to my door. After all, it’s not like he just steps inside the door; he walks every inch of the house – every room, spraying and de-bugging! No secrets are kept from him!
As I washed my hair, behind my closed door, I thought of how surprise guests can un-nerve us. Then I thought about the verse that tells us that Jesus will return as a thief in the night. On that day when Christ returns, an even greater relief will come if we have been faithful to be busy about His business. When He comes, will find our house in order? No rooms filled with unforgiveness and bitterness. No grievances and critical spirits stacked up. Our Bible isn’t dusty because it’s been used every day. We’ve not been sleepy and sluggish, but alert to the spiritual needs of those around us. For even more with the Lord, there are no hidden secrets.
He could come today. Will I be embarrassed or relieved at His coming? How about you? We know He’s on His way, so there’s no need to be surprised. Let’s stay faithful and ready!
On another note, to encourage you just five days before Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d give you an idea or two to help you celebrate with your husband.
A winter picnic is so romantic! If you can’t do a lunch picnic on the 14th, plan one for Saturday or Sunday after church (leave the children home!). Pack a couple of warm blankets, some candles, a thermos of hot soup, crusty bread, and a chocolate dessert. Find a cozy picnic area and wrap up in the blankets and enjoy your meal together.
Have you made plans for Valentine’s Day? What romantic ideas can you share with us?
With love,
RefreshHer 