Each New Day

At the time, remodeling the kitchen appeared to be the worst decision Jean had ever made. Each day the messy renovation brought more chaos and disarray. The slowness of the project made her doubt if the kitchen would ever return to normal.

To have a pretty new kitchen, the old one had to be removed. Sledgehammers destroyed countertops and walls. Dust and debris spread throughout the entire house. Jean’s architect reassured her that though things looked bad outwardly, the project was progressing. Jean found encouragement in her daily conversations with the project leader, especially when he pointed out barely noticeable improvements.

Caregiving resembles a remodeling project. The care of a frail person who may never recover can make us wonder if all the work is worthwhile. Progress is difficult to imagine when all we see each day are struggles.

“Do not lose heart” is the motto of the Architect of our lives. God, in our daily talks with Him, encourages us to keep our eyes on the long view. Each day small movements toward renewal occur. God sees the final project complete, restored, and beautiful. The chaos we are in now will be forgotten in heaven when He completes our inner renovation.