Wednesday 25 September 2024
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get lost in the rush of daily tasks, always moving from one thing to the next. But there’s something beautiful about slowing down, being fully present in the moment, and turning ordinary homemaking tasks into acts of love and care. Today, I want to reflect on the peace that comes when we choose to live intentionally, even in the seemingly insignificant moments of homemaking.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:11, we’re instructed to “aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands…” This verse speaks to the beauty of a drama-free, simple and peaceful life – and gives hope to introverts like me! – where even the trivial, unsocial tasks can be acts of grace and love.
We often think of homemaking as an agenda, a series of incessant tasks. But when we approach it with a slow and intentional mindset, it transforms into something much deeper. Each task becomes an opportunity to nurture our homes, care for our loved ones, and create a peaceful space where everyone can thrive.
Take something as simple as folding laundry. Instead of hurrying through it, take a moment to feel the warmth of the fabric, appreciate our Heavenly Father for providing clothes for us to wear, and lovingly reflect on the people who wear it. Colossians 3:23 tells us: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Slowing down allows us to find joy and purpose in these little moments, knowing that even the most mundane tasks are meaningful when done with love and intentionality.
Washing dishes can feel like an inconvenience at the end of a long day, but when we slow down, we can find beauty in the rhythm of the water, the sound of dishes clinking, and the satisfaction of a clean kitchen. We can be grateful for those dirty dishes because that means we have food to eat, and know that our Heavenly Father provides, not necessarily for our every want, but for our every need.
Similarly, sweeping the floor can feel like a hassle – especially if you have to sweep more than once a day behind a messy puppy and a few children! But, the dirt comes from barefoot memory-making together outside in the fresh air. Sweeping the floor can be about creating a space where your family can walk without stress, where the floors reflect the peace and care you’ve put into your home. The steady movement of the broom can be soothing, a moment to reflect and be grateful for the home you’re tending.
It’s easy to overlook these moments, but I’ve learned that there is peace waiting for us if we choose to be present. Homemaking is not just about keeping things clean and tidy—it’s about creating a space filled with love, peace, and joy. By slowing down, we allow ourselves to live intentionally, making every action count.
I encourage you to slow down today, to take time to be present in whatever tasks you have before you. Whether it’s tidying up, preparing a meal, or simply sitting down with a cup of tea, let these moments fill you with peace and gratitude. In the end, it’s not about how much we accomplish but how we choose to live each moment of each day.
Simply Amber Marie 