"Hazelnut Please..."

So, where to start on something like this....I guess it is easiest to just jump right in.  I have been thinking about ways that we can create an atmosphere in our homes where the Lord feels comfortable enough to hang out with us.  Jesus says that where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name, He is in the midst.  I think we overlook the "in His name" part.  Plenty of people who come to our home comment on the atmosphere in our here.  They say they feel the Lord's presence and His peace.  

I know for sure that you can never earn God's presence.  I also know that we can make a place for Jesus in our lives. The minute we make it a rule based situation, things fall apart (at least on the inside).  I think God is more pleased by us accepting each other in our humanity, restoring one another in a spirit of gentleness, as needed, rather than having people feel that the standard is so high they will never measure up. There can be the feeling that it's better to just look good on the outside and cover up struggles they are having inside.

There have been many times when I have just gulped real hard and nodded my head hoping that my expression did not expose what was buzzing around my head.  We all need a hug and understanding when we sin or struggle.  It is Jesus' kindness that leads us to repentance.  I have to be careful as a parent not to have my identity so wrapped up in my children's behavior that they are afraid to be real and feel that they have to perform and act like a "good Christian" for me to love and care for them.

We can have a Jesus culture in our homes.  Relationship vs. rules produces lasting fruit, that hold true even in our relationship with Jesus.

I guess that is all for now girls....let me know your thoughts.