Perspective.

So I've been avoiding writing about our house renovations within the last few months or so. Mostly because it's been at a standstill throughout the winter,...and in some ways, seeming to even go backward! We've been overwhelmed, frustrated, weary, etc. We were without heat (except a few space heaters, and a ventless gas fireplace that we bought because we got a good deal on it). We had to dispute the kitchen cabinet company because we didn't get everything we ordered and paid for (not to mention a few damaged cabinets). We had birds flying inside our house because the laundry room has a spot in the floor where the concrete is tore up for plumbing so there's a little hole to the outside, which we assume the birds came from. Fortunately we have cats who took it upon themselves to end the lives of the 2 birds that managed to enter into their territory (thank you Milton and Mojo). And the list could go on and on...

People have mentioned to us that our house is like that 80's movie, "The Money Pit" (which I've never seen). I decided to look for a clip of it on YouTube this morning. I admit, this made me laugh. And made me feel better about my house:

 

By the grace of God, we have not been living in a constant state of despair over the house though. We have our moments, but like Tom Hanks...you just gotta laugh at it sometimes. However...a few mornings ago, I had a "moment". I walked downstairs and looked at all the chaos and construction and junk piled up, and dirt on the floor, and our unfinished kitchen...and I just felt so defeated. So overwhelmed. Where do we even begin? Will progress ever be made? Will this house ever be finished? Will we ever be able to start trying to have a baby (Lord knows we're not trying until we even have room for a baby, and certainly not while I'm breathing in dirt and dust!). I just wanted to sit there and cry and feel sorry for myself.

But then, on Friday March 11th, God put things into perspective for me. 

 

I have a house. I have a bed. I have a bathroom. I have food and water. THOUSANDS of people in Japan do not. My life is not in danger. Their lives are. And I thought I didn't know where to begin with MY house? And I thought I felt defeated and overwhelmed?  Can you even imagine what they're going through? My situation w/our little Philadelphia row home doesn't even compare. I have been so blessed.

God always has a way of putting things into perspective for you, doesn't He? I can quickly convince myself that I have every right to complain and grumble and be in despair. I mean just look at my house! HA. As quickly has the thought crosses my mind, God taps me on the shoulder. "Really, Krystal?"..."Step back for a moment outside of your own little selfish world, and look at the bigger picture. Look at what other people in the world are going through.....and more importantly, look at the cross and what I went through for YOU". 

Now what do you have to say?

Read Ephesians 1 to remind yourself of all the spiritual blessings you have in Christ. It'll make your earthly trials seems like a tiny speck.... in light of eternity. (*Not to diminish pain and suffering on earth...it definitely sucks. But looking to God and the blessings He's given  to us undeserving wretches, makes it a little easier to get through. We have hope.)