Grandmother’s House

Some of my best childhood memories are tied to trips to my grandmother's house. Her home was very small, and with so many grandchildren gathered together, it often felt like we were packed like sardines. But that didn't matter because we cherished her presence, and we children were always up to something fun.

At one point, my grandmother became very ill, so she always had one of my aunts there to help her. One thing I remember from every visit to my grandmother's house is that I never, ever, ever, left empty-handed. Whether I was a child or had already grown up and started my own family, my grandmother and my aunt Valentina who stayed with her always sent me home with goodies. These treats often included Russian buttered buns called bulachki, baked bread, pickled veggies, and so many other things.

We always shared a meal while we were there, but then we would take home a load of treats. My time with my grandmother was something I wanted to hold onto for as long as I could.

The time I spend with God reminds me so much of my trips to my grandmother's house. I never leave His presence empty-handed. There is so much that I gain from every encounter with Him. Most importantly, I find strength for this journey called life. 

Every time I take the time to be quiet, pray, and read His Word, I mentally transport myself to His dwelling place.  My visits with God yield a continual source of renewed strength—strength to navigate the daily chaos that often comes with parenting and adulthood, strength to let go of any grievances I might have, and strength to endure the hardships and challenges I face. It also gives me strength to look to the future with joy, hope, and optimism.

Job reflects on this relationship he cherished with God. He reminds his friends of a time when "God's intimate friendship blessed his house”and as a result “my strength is continually renewed" (Job 29:4-20). Job found continual new strength when he spent intimate time with God.

"Strength and joy are in His dwelling place..." (1 Chronicles 16:27).

“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] Will gain new strength…”(Is. 40:31).