Comfort In What Stands Forever

The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.

There are times I’ll lie in bed at night and imagine what it was like to live in my house years ago. Built in 1907, our home has seen several generations of people come and go. I’ve heard stories of former residents from all different backgrounds and life experiences: bricklayers and police officers, cement makers and shop owners.

I’ve heard tales of the renovations done decades ago—the partial basement dug out by hand and the woodwork restored after shag carpet was removed—and the people who’ve walked these halls. I’ve been told of card games played around kitchen tables, neighborhood kids who came to play in the large yard, and the twin boys who would often climb out on tree limbs from the second-story windows. I smile when I think about all the holidays, the birthday parties, the wedding and anniversary celebrations. And I reflect on more solemn days, the deaths and losses I’m sure were experienced as well.

These walls that have been repainted countless times, the floors that now squeak, and the doors that take finesse to close—all bear witness to the life that was lived. I find myself being grateful to be a part of this story, knowing there will be other families long after I’m gone to walk these same floors and make memories of their own.

There’s consolation in seeing your place in a larger story—acknowledging those before you and those who’ll come after you. Just as my house has stood to give shelter and stability to many generations (and hopefully many more to come), the Word of God is steadfast. Even when the grass and flowers fade, structures come to ruin, and people pass away, God will never change. He always stays as our sure and steady anchor. From generation to generation, we can see his consistency in our lives and the lives of the people around us. His Word stands forever. And that is the greatest comfort of all.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

If you take a step back from your current situation, what can you see that has been consistent in your life and that you can thank God for?