It's not just the house.......

The house needs LOTS of work.  I'm not talking general maintenance, but yes, that too.  Not regular cleaning, it's in pretty good shape currently in that area.  But RESTORATION.... in many areas.  Downstairs needs new, double paned windows. (the current windows date to the early '70's!)  Sliding doors need replacements, kitchen/breakfast nook/laundry room/hall and bathroom needs new flooring and upstairs, well, it needs everything, literally, everything, minus the insulation. (thank you Sean Van Ness for completing that project while we were in Texas.) Lots of organization for efficiency.  More outdoor projects than there is time or money for, but working on a bit at a time. (thank you Michael Sutton for your hard work in that area.)

But the title of this entry says it's not just the house, and indeed, most of the people residing in the house require restoration as well.  Some know they need it, some have no idea what they need.  Some are fighting against any form of wholeness or restoration.  Some don't even believe they need it, and yet need it most.  I need it.  However, I can spend a few days at the beach, spend some time reading and praying, walking and talking to God and to anyone else who'll listen and be ready to take on the world.  How do I lead/guide/nudge those who don't know what they are searching for to restoration?  Tis truly the hardest lessons, realizing you cannot force anyone into wholeness. Can't micro manage it, can't whack them upside the head with it, (tempting) can't trick them into it.  My head gets that they must come on their own.  It's the waiting and watching that's so very hard.  Watching them hurt, stumble and question why, tears at my heart.  Patience is not one of my long suits, though I've had a sneaky suspicion that God has been chiseling away at my orneriness for sometime. Lord, help me portray your gospel so that it is more desirable than any other options out there. I'll take some wisdom along the way, but most of all, help me to rest in you, knowing that your timing is always perfect.