How many times have you said,
“Everything I do ends up undone!”
{Please tell me it isn’t just me.}
In fact, this is the very reason I like projects. I like things that have a finishing point. I like things that stay finished.
There’s nothing wrong with this unless we find ourselves apathetic toward our everyday work for the simple fact that it is never complete. When we start to feel like Sisyphus of Albert Camus’ Myth of Sisyphus, pushing that proverbial boulder of housework up the hill, only to have it roll back down over and over again, it might be time to readjust our thinking.
You see, Camus, in his existential wisdom (note my sarcasm) suggested we find meaning in the work so the fact that it keeps falling apart doesn’t leave us hopeless. And I used to approach homemaking in this way. I used to tell myself I just needed to find meaning in washing dishes and cleaning bathrooms…then I would be content. What I didn’t realize is that you cannot separate work from worship and expect it to have any lasting effect.
Additionally, we don’t work as people without hope. We know there is an eternity. Even if we never see the fruit of our labor in this lifetime, there will come a time when we will.
We have to change our view of work. It has to stop being something we do over and over ad naseum. We have to see it as worship. We have to see it as the Lord’s work.
**************
Have you snagged your FREE Homeschooling for Free and Frugal ebook from FreeHomeschoolDeals.com?
************
Jerilyn says
I just realized in the last year or so that that is the reason why I love sewing so much; the finished product doesn’t dissolve into thin air ten minutes after it is completed. I actually have something to show for my time! I am seriously blessed though, to have a husband who acknowledges the work that I do every day, although the evidence of it’s having been done is usually gone by the time he gets home. He knows the socks don’t just magically reappear in his drawer. It is a joy to serve him and my children knowing that I am serving the Lord in the process. It’s what makes christian homes shine like cities on a hill.
Molly says
Oh my good gracious…I struggle with this so much! I look around and see yet MORE crumbs on the floor, more dishes in the sink and want to run. But I also look around and see my children watching me. God set me here, and these dishes are His will for me. It’s hard to always keep that in mind though!!
Kristen says
I agree! Any work we do is for the Lord. I often feel guilty for not bringing in extra income, but I have to remind myself that staying home and raising my son is what God has planned for me right now. And the time with my little one is priceless.
Jarm says
Yes, it’s all about motivation…only what’s done for Christ will last!
Jessica W says
This is such a great word for me this morning. Not only in housework but in discipline and teaching my children as well. Thank you!
kelli- AdventurezInChildRearing says
You have to read my post for the day! I’m feeling your pain my friend! 🙂 and encouragement too
Sheri says
I love Sherry, she always has sound advice. One tip I could do a shout out for is about eye contact. If you have (or know someone who has) a autistic/asperger child, recognize that eye contact is too ‘sensory’. If they seem to look down or off to the side while being talked to, it is not out of disrespect, but rather it is their ability to “hear” what you are saying. Took me awhile to connect the dots on this one because we are firm eye-contact discipline types. *wink*
~Sheri