Well, that hearth part might be a bit of wishful thinking, since it’s a still a little warm out for a fire. But I like the way those two words go together.

Hearth.

Home.

They both speak of the heart to me, those I love, and what’s most important.

It’s supposed to rain all day, and I have no plans but to stay inside, do some crafting on a project I’m making for a baby’s room, talk to some little people, and maybe watch a movie. I might even make a pot of chili as an ode to the hearth. The point is that I need a recharge day. A day to take a deep breath and let some quiet seep into my bones.

You may not have that kind of day planned. You could have a day full of errands, with long grocery lists (in which case, GOD BLESS YOU) and maybe a soccer game, or two, sandwiched in between. Maybe you have 27 loads of laundry and two sick kids, or a lawn that needs mowing, and stacks of paperwork to wade through.

Regardless, there is a spot for you at the hearth of God. Quiet respite in the midst of chaos, where the warmth of His fire is always burning, and where He is always waiting with a comfy chair just for you. Maybe it’s in your closet, or a few minutes behind the locked door of your bathroom. Maybe it’s in your car, or while you’re mowing the lawn. Maybe, just maybe, it’ll have to be a momentary mental pulling-away from the crazy, for a grounding in what’s important.

No matter how you slice it, we all need time to regroup and recharge, and thankfully, the Man upstairs doesn’t discriminate. He’s ready and available for any one of us who needs Him. Go ahead; go knock on the door.

I don’t know if He’ll have chili, but I do know He’s always home.

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

“God doesn’t come and go. God lasts.
    He’s Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn’t get tired out, doesn’t pause to catch his breath.
    And he knows everything, inside and out.
He energizes those who get tired,
    gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire and drop out,
    young folk in their prime stumble and fall.
But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.
    They spread their wings and soar like eagles,
They run and don’t get tired,
    they walk and don’t lag behind.” Isaiah 28-31 MSG