House – Home – Life

It seems like a distant memory – Smoke poured forth from the chimney on the cool November evening. It was almost Thanksgiving. Two little kids, brother and sister, peer from the upstairs window. They anxiously await the arrival of their cousins or perhaps their dad with the turkey fresh from the butcher. Soon enough the house will be filled with laughter and the smells of the roasting turkey and pumpkin pie.

Years ago the house was built with a foundation of love and hope. It was not long before the sound of a crying baby would pierce the night. The years would fly by. Times of joy, happiness, struggle and even death. The home would be a guard and a witness throughout all of life’s stages.

A new generation would take over the house. Each Thanksgiving would find a greater number of aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters. First there was the need for the “kids table” then the need for two. Some years it was standing room only. House = home = life

Then the day came; not sure why but the last generation moved out. Perhaps the house could no longer support them or it was just time to move on. Here the house still stands.

“Posted,” “No Trespassing!” No longer is the door open to family, friend or even strangers. No longer does it welcome life within its walls.

Like the smoke that once poured from its chimney life is a vapor, a fog that quickly dissipates. If we are not careful, we will miss it.

Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring—what your life will be! For you are like vapor that appears for a little while, then vanishes – James 4:14

This Thanksgiving let me encourage you to cherish each and every day for the gift that it is. No matter where you are in this life, I pray that you will find time to be grateful for the day and may you be covered by the grace and peace of God our Father and of his Son our Lord, Jesus Christ. Oh, and I pray you find time to laugh.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Photo is my own, you can see more of photographs www.jonstallings.photography or on instagram @jonstallingsphoto 

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About the Author: Jon Stallings

I am enthusiastic about helping others discover their purpose and grow into a deeper relationship with Jesus. It is great to see their eyes light up at their “Ah Ha!” moment when they discover they were created for something more. My hope is that this blog will help encourage and inspire you along your way. Join the conversation and take the time to share with me your own story. I have been married to my beautiful wife Janice for over 30 years. We currently live in McDonough Georgia with our daughter. Our two boys have left the nest and we have two wonderful grand kids. Of course we cannot forget about our dog Bear.