Restoration of a House in Ruins

‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the LORD Almighty.”

— Haggai 2:9 NIV

Every Sunday after church, my Granddaddy Tuck drove through the country looking at the fields of corn, cotton, and tobacco. Long rides past acres of farmland were boring until my granddaddy stopped at an old country store. We jumped from the sedan and ran inside to select a candy bar and Coke. Many years later, I peered out the truck window as my brother drove through the flat countryside of eastern North Carolina. Acres of farmland brought back fond childhood memories of brief trips with my Granddaddy Tuck through the country.

Then, a two-story dwelling with a rusty roof caught my attention. A dirt drive led from the asphalt road past a weather-beaten barn to the dwelling. I clutched my brother’s shoulder. “Please stop for me to take a picture of this worn-out homestead.”

            Despite the fading beauty, the home stood strong, weathering the storms of life. It remained standing because boarded windows helped protect the frame house. A scrawny vine clung to the crevices of a broken brick chimney. Several shattered shingles on the exterior of the home exposed the original wood plank.

            Behind the dwelling stood small burial grounds. A white fence surrounding the tombstones showed a love for the occupants. Multiple generations worked the land, then died on this property. Within the walls, there was a treasure trove of memories that spanned several lifetimes. I hope someone passing through feels motivated to restore the house’s beauty, so it becomes a loving home instead of a desolate dwelling.

            In the Old Testament, we read about the destruction of God’s house. Afterward, His

people went about their lives without repairing the Tabernacle. Until the prophet Haggai admonished them about not rebuilding the temple. He criticized them for not repairing God’s residence before they built themselves comfortable homes. “Who of you is left who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Does it not seem to you like nothing” (Haggai 2:3, NIV)?

            The people were concerned with building their homes and living their lives. They failed to restore the house of God. When we care more about our physical needs and desires than God, we isolate ourselves.

            Now, our bodies are where the Lord desires to dwell. Despite our polished outward appearance, the absence of the Holy Spirit leaves us empty and in spiritual ruins. There is no glimmer of hope. But, Jesus promised to send a comforter, to console and sustain His followers during times of need. His Spirit dwells within the bodies of believers. When we honor God by listening and seeking to do His will, we are beautiful temples of the Lord.

            However, when we choose to go our way, our spirit suffers loss. When you feel broken and believe that things are beyond repair, turn to Him. We are never beyond His forgiveness. Repentance allows the Holy Spirit to have control. It is a slow process as we yield to Him and He begins by restoring our relationship with Him. He is the supreme builder who builds and molds us into His likeness, which transforms us. He brings healing, peace of mind, and joy. We are new creatures because the love of Christ is within us. We are His temple and our words and actions reflect Him.

Prayer: My spiritual life was in shambles because I sought my way. But mercifully, God forgave me and restored my life. He continues to transform me into a person who magnifies the name of Jesus. Now my dwelling reflects the Lord’s glory.

Your turn: What in your life doesn’t reflect the Lord and needs restoration?