Like Home

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 11: Today, I am grateful for places that feel like home.  

"People aren't longing to be impressed, they are longing to feel like they're at home." -Shauna Niequist 

I think this statement holds some deep truths. There are times we arrive in new places, and feel out of place. There are other times, it quickly feels like home. To feel truly welcome makes us feel at home. 

Lazarus, Martha, and Mary were dear friends of Jesus. We are not told the back story, but there is something unique in his relationship with them. They recognized him as their Lord and Savior, but they opened their home with him as well. He shared time and meals with them. 

The relationship had an intimacy that meant when they called for Jesus to come and help their sick brother, they were devastated when he did not come instantly. Lazarus died and was buried before Jesus arrived in Bethany. Mary and Martha were devastated. 

In their joys and in their grief, Jesus was at home in their house.  He had sat with them for evening meals as dear friends. He came to share their grief and restore their joy. He wept with them, feeling their pain. Did he weep for their disappointment, too? 

"Then Jesus wept." -John 11:35

We do not know all of the details of the story. We know that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead in a show of power, healing,  and restoration. No one who had been a part of the mourning for Lazarus could deny his resurrection.  

There is a special joy that comes from feeling truly welcome at a table, in a home, and with a family. 

Today, I am grateful for places that feel like home.