The bedroom closet door is unremarkable until you open it and look at the other side. It’s partially painted in the shape of a cross that holds a height chart recording the growth of our children and grandchildren. Each penciled line marks the passing of time, and decades of living in this old stucco house. For thirty-seven years, this old lady has been our home; even during our time overseas, she was a way station for our weary souls whenever we had the chance to return.  

“A house is built by wisdom, and it is established by understanding; by knowledge the rooms are filled with every precious and beautiful treasure.” (Proverbs 24:3–4) 

I wonder if the writer of Proverbs 24 knew how relevant his words would be thousands of years later. 

The markings on that height chart don’t just point to physical growth. They are reminders of everything else that was going on in our lives at that time. The successes, failures, and every turning point in the lives of my three children and my marriage bears witness to the presence or absence of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. All of them are mile markers that point to God's faithful guidance. 

No matter where we live in this fallen world, we strive to make our homes places of peace, even though we know that they are but a pale shadow of what is to come. Jesus says in John 14, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you.”. 

However you mark time in your home, be encouraged and know that God is guiding you through every triumph and trial. And remember, our eternal dwelling place is where true wisdom, understanding, and knowledge will reign. 

“And if I weep let it be as a man who is longing for his home” – Rich Mullins