My Porch

Those who know me well, know that my porch is a sacred place for me.  It’s not specifically the porch it’s self.  It’s the environment.  I’ve been know to move “my porch” into the middle of the front yard and sit in the open during the day or at best, by night, because I love the spacious skies and to watch the hurl of galaxies spinning above as the moon shines its face to me below.  It is there that I sit, ponder, pray, create, read and visit with friends.  Not all at the same time of course, but each moment I spend there the Lord blesses me with something new.  Today was a special time on the porch, sitting with a cool breeze, blanket and a hot cup of coffee; simply taking the morning slowly, reflecting on the night before as we hosted a reunion for the first group of RESTORE Retreat ladies.  God showed up last night, faithful yet again!  My challenge to them, and myself:   If scripture says that Jeremiah was known as a man to whom the Lord came, what am I known for?  I think the answer for me is still being formulated as I continue to seek areas of service for my Lord.

I went for a walk after my “porch time” wondering what the day would hold for me.  I pass by the old man with a permanent frown attached to his face.  He never speaks, waves, or acknowledges my presence.  I walk on.  I see a young mother walking with her baby in the stroller.  I smile and speak, she responds.  Later we pass again.  I speak, she doesn’t.  Then we meet a third time, and I’m inclined to invite her to my house for coffee or a glass of water.  She accepts, and I am surprised!  Not sure if I’m surprised that I asked her out of the deep blue sky (knowing that my house was not ready for company) or that she responded with a yes and then asked me where I lived!  When I told her, she asked, “Is that the house with the awesome porch?  It’s been my inspiration!”  I laughed and told her we would sit there and visit!  We had a sweet time together, this stranger and me.  I think God was smiling!  When visiting with others in my neighborhood, they always ask, “Is yours the house with the beautiful porch?”   You see, my porch is really nothing special.  But in God’s own way, He has sanctified it.  It is inviting and set apart for His purpose.  I made a new friend on the porch today as we were both in exercise attire and no make up!  Unbrushed hair.  Natural.  Simple conversation.  Laughter.  Water.  It kinda brought about a new meaning of the scripture...a cup of water in my name....  

I’m thankful for my little porch and that others take notice and are drawn to it.  I am known in my neighborhood as the lady with the porch!  I ask God to bless all that sit there and for Him to reveal Himself to them.  One of my desires is to be known as the “Porch Lady” who speaks wisdom and shares Jesus’ love.

“Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.”  Ephesians 5:10 ~ The Message

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As you go through this week, ask God to help you notice windows of opportunity;  those little subtle moments when you could speak a kind word, do an act of kindness, engage in conversation about our Savior.  Listen closely to the Holy Spirit.  He is speaking softly and you must be walking closely to hear that voice.  Scripture tells us to be ready to give an answer to anyone who inquires about the hope that lives within you.

1 Peter 3:15 New International Version
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

Be blessed this week!  Know I'm praying for each of you who read this blog and that the presence of the Holy Spirit would minister to each of you.       
                                                                                         Blessings, Sherry

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