I was asked to share some thoughts about being a guardian of the hearth at a meeting last month. For days I researched and stewed over what to say. What could I possibly share that someone might need to hear? Then one early a.m. I woke up, picked up my pen and started to write.
Take it or leave it, this, plus a few revisions, is what I came up with.
What
is a guardian of the hearth? First, what is a hearth?
It is the floor
of a fireplace.
It is a vital center of the home.
It is synonymous
with the word “home” itself.
The hearth was a place where all in
the house would gather for warmth, light, company, and nourishment.
It was quite literally the heart of the home. Therefore,
a guardian of the hearth is one who watches over and protects home
and family.
A guardian of the hearth can be anyone. But is most
likely, you. A guardian of the hearth may have been trained to be
such from childhood. A pillar, generations in the making. Or she may
be a pioneer in her field. She may have a quiver full of children, a
bustling household, a single companion at her side or perhaps she is
a family of one. No matter, her well-being and her refuge is of
sacred importance. And through the years, her residence may change,
it's residents coming and going through various ages, stages,
and phases, but the hearth stays the same.
She
should know that the foundation under her feet, supporting her world,
is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. She is
defending the key components of an eternal family; prayer, scripture
study, sabbath day observance, family home evening, and spiritual
growth in general. She is watchful of the nurturing and overall
well-being of each spirit in her charge. Including her own. If there
is anything virtuous lovely, of good report or praiseworthy, she not
only seeks for it but makes it readily available in abundance for all
who pass by.
Her
motto is, “Charity Never Faileth” Her direction is heaven. Her
refuge, on her knees.
A
guardian of the hearth should be ready for battle. Daily battle.
Dressed always in the armor of God. She is not afraid to recognize
the enemy, identify his hiding places, his strongholds, nor his
attempts to infiltrate and destroy all that she holds dear. She is
not afraid of the enemy at all but holds her
head high with confidence in the strength of God.
A
guardian of the hearth is not afraid to be recognized as such. She
disregards the opinion of the world and rather, focuses on upholding
righteous traditions and cherishing sacred moments. She is in the
business of memory-making and is always in search of that positive
teaching moment. She is always ready to learn.
A
guardian of the hearth should never underestimate her calling, her
God-given power, nor her un-acclaimed influence for good.
A
guardian of the hearth is BEAUTIFUL. She is a daughter of God and a
child of light. Her countenance is HIS. When she gives of her time,
she gives of her love and HIS. Her hands are HIS hands. Her purpose,
HIS.
She
should know that while in the service of God, she will NEVER miss out
on ANYTHING that is truly worthwhile. And IF she is ever
weary. If she feels run down. If she begins to question her validity
in this world, she should remember that her work MATTERS, that she is
NEVER alone. Angels WILL buoy her up. The Holy Spirit WILL guide and
The Son of God WILL carry her.
Peter,
a guardian of the hearth, said to Tabitha, “Daughter, arise.”
Christ says it to you; “Daughter, arise!” Don't be ashamed to
stand in this holy
place he has prepared and reserved for YOU. YOU are the
guardian of this holy place. . . called home.
Take
your place and guard it well.
By Rochelle Flores
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