Our HOUSE

My oldest daughter said something this week that was very simple, yet profound.  It was about my nephew.  He hangs out with us a lot; consequently, he is often witness to the good, bad, ordinary, and extraordinary things that go on here in our “big room.”  I call it the “big room” because we do not have a separate kitchen, dining, or living room.  We have one large and open room that 99% of life around here takes place in. 

My nephew, perched up on a barstool, heard me ground a kid, praise a kid, order one around, and heaven only knows what else all while his popcorn popped in the microwave.  Banner made the comment “Wow, Bragg is just IN everything here.”   I think she was implying she felt sorry for him because he was being exposed to reality here. 

He did not say much, but just smiled.  It was like he was taking it all in and making a mental note of how his Aunt B’s house is action packed and sometimes crazy! 

There is a lot of action here.  We have three huge exercise balls going at all times because the younger  kids convinced me that they would do more homework if they sprawled out on the balls.  The dogs are either sleeping or in trouble and being kicked out for their wild, animal like behavior. 

Two of us like to speak with “Parent Trap” British accents.  There are sports conversations, hunting stories, and cooking tips shared often and sometimes all at once.  The refrigerator open door warning beeper and my smoothie maker are our background music…lots of love and lots of action!

On a quiet morning last week when I was up alone and pouring my second cup of coffee, the thought occurred to me…What are we doing here?  I mean…as a family, me as a Mom, what are we doing here?  We have laugher, busy days, lazy days, good times, bad times and a grocery store list that is never-ending, but I silently asked myself what the purpose of it all was?

Very clearly the Lord reminded me in the stillness of my own kitchen that the purpose of life is to honor and know Him, to do His work.  I mentally connected that truth to parenting my kids.  I thought…I am not raising them to be politicians, hardworking welders, professional football players, hairstylist, or even mothers and fathers really. I am also not raising them to be beautiful, rich, successful, or powerful.  I am raising them to be light in this dark world and lead others, in whatever path they take as adults, to Jesus.  That is our purpose here. 

Rick Warren’s bestselling book “The Purpose Driven Life” begins with this line.  ”It is not about you.”    

The next paragraph starts with “The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness.”  It goes onto say “If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God.” 

I first read the book in 2003. I am going to reread it.  It lines up with what is in my heart for myself and my family.  Social media likes and bank balances are not it.  Approval from peers and perfectly dusted furniture are not why we are here either.  We are here for Jesus.  I want to get it right!

Exodus 9:16 says “I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all of the earth.”  That is exciting to me.  What about you?