Temporary place. A familiar part of the faith journey.
Each stop stirs mute awareness in the back of my mind. And the depths of my soul.
This is not for always. But only for a season.
Temporary. No matter where we move. Set up house. And make a home.
Expectations
We’ve lived in large spaces and small. Rooms full of light. And flats dim. Dark.
I’ve struggled to settle at times. In the uncomfortable. Places of shortage and breakdowns. Without water in the pipes. Or power in the lines.
Then, unexpected displacements. Change.
Funny how expectations rise up and cloud true purpose. Blur why we’re here in the first place.
Temporary place
Over the years, at each temporary place, I learn what’s necessary. For clarity. And stability.
Setting aside time and space for meeting with Him. Daily.
Opening His Word. Listening. Praying.
View
Sometimes my view has been through glass and iron bars. To the eucalyptus blooming in desert dryness.
Other times through rusted screen. To city buildings and traffic.
For several years I look out at a small mountain.
Reminding me, “I lift my eyes to the mountains. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).
Remember
Even in the narrow places, I learn to remember. Remember what my heart truly longs for.
The only true and lasting habitation. Our Shelter forever.
And His divine architecture far outshines any little piece of real estate we may momentarily live in.
True Home
Living in the temporary place confirms the true. This world is not our home.
And upheaval makes me ever grateful to be anchored. In a permanent dwelling place. Unchangeable.
Abiding in Christ.
He is our true Home.
What about you?
Have you moved from place to place? Or stayed in one location? What has the Lord taught you about your true Home?
Related posts
Habit – Temporary nest – Collecting dust – Living in exile – Where is home? – Strong roots and movable tents – Tents and altars – Hebrews 11:8-10 – John 14:23 –
Note
This post was originally published in January 2023. While I take a writing break in August, I’m re-posting a random selection from years past.
10 replies on “Temporary place”
I remember a couple of those views you describe! I pray your break is refreshing!
I know you do!😊😅 Thank you —it has been.
So true, always moving around. Longing for Home, we find it in God’s presence. Love you and thanks, Susan!
Thanks, Katie! Thankful that one of our temporary places meant crossing paths with you!😊🙌🏼
This is a very helpful post to repost! I’m struggling with living in this comfortable place—how to rejoice in the Lord and also grow in faith without any suffering to speak of, how to deny self and take up my cross among so many who are used to life here and don’t question spending money on entertainment and trips and eating out—not that any of that is bad but how to abide in Christ in all that!
What comes to mind as I struggle with this sometimes are Paul’s words in Philippians 4:12– “I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need.” Asking for a holy contentment in this–and wisdom to minister in a different “cross-cultural” setting this season.
Good reminder and thx for your prayers!
Thoroughly enjoyed this posting, Susan. Anyone who has ever been posted outside of the U.S. can relate. Thanks for sharing! Blessings, Susan
Thank you, Susan! You certainly understand 😊
I have moved in my life many times. I am often reminded of the Bible verses about us being “aliens and strangers” on earth. Living in tents.