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S.O.A.P. a method of spiritual journaling
Scripture
Observation (What does it say?)
Application (What does it say to me?)
Prayer
S - Proverbs 24: 3,4 “ By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.”
O - It takes wisdom, understanding and knowledge to build a house and establish it as a beautiful home.
A - As I reflect back over the years, home has been an integral part of who I am and who I desire to be. Even now, years later, my memories of the house I grew up in are strong and can easily move me to tears as I remember fondly the safe, happy place full of wonderful family dinners and gatherings. My parents were hospitable and my mother especially loved to prepare meals for company both expected and unexpected. Tea parties were a regular event in our home and after Sunday evening church gatherings brought many folks in for sandwiches and sweets or just brown bread and cheese along with a cup of tea. I grew up loving people around and enjoying immensely the conversations around the meal table. I often drifted off to sleep at bedtime with the sound of adult laughter coming from the living room.
That love for people and meaningful conversation has only grown deeper as I have established my own home. I am grateful for having a home where everyone is welcome and we can share our table with people of all ages and backgrounds. With God’s help and guidance we have established a home for our own family where they feel safe, content and always welcome to bring friends along. I want our home to be a haven of rest from the pressures and struggles in the world. A place where peace, respect and laughter go hand in hand with acts of love. I want people to want to be here! The rare and beautiful treasures are not the material things that surround me but the cherished conversations and opportunities to make people feel welcomed, loved and comfortable in our home.
P - Thank you, Father, for once again affirming in my heart the purpose for the home you’ve given us and why the effort we spend on it is worth it. May our home always point others to You and bring You glory and honour.