Creative Prompt: paint some houses
Paint a row of simple little houses or use this coloring page.
They don't need to be complicated: a square, a roof, a few windows and a door. Make them colorful and wonky. Add chimneys, flowers, trees, paths, curtains, or anything else you'd like.
As you paint, hold this wondering:
What does it mean for me to be at home with Jesus?
You don't need to come up with an answer. Let the question sit with you while you paint. Maybe you think about the places where you already feel close to Jesus or maybe you notice something you long for. Or maybe you just simply enjoy painting houses while remembering that you are already welcomed and loved by him.
As you work, you might wonder:
I wonder what helps me feel at home with Jesus?
I wonder when I feel most able to simply be with him?
I wonder what Jesus wants me to know about my place with him?
I wonder what makes it hard for me to believe that I belong?
I wonder what it would feel like to stop trying to earn my welcome with Jesus?
I wonder where Jesus is inviting me to rest in his love right now?
Don't try to answer them all. Notice if one question seems to stay with you.
You might even ask Jesus directly:
Jesus, what do you want me to know about being at home with you?
Then keep painting and listening.
A Kid-Friendly Version
Invite kids to draw a house they would really like to live in.
It can have whatever they want: a giant slide, a room for pets, rainbow windows, a swimming pool, a candy garden.
While they draw, you might wonder together:
What makes somewhere feel like home?
What makes you feel safe and loved?
I wonder what it is like to know that you always belong with Jesus?
I wonder what Jesus loves about having you close to him?
There doesn't need to be a lesson at the end. Give them room to wonder.
Making Our Home in Jesus
In John 15, Jesus tells his friends to abide in him, to remain with him, to make their home in his love.
I love that image because our life with Jesus isn't only about doing things for him. It is about being with him. We don't have to arrive at Jesus' door with everything figured out. We don't have to become more impressive or more spiritual before we're allowed inside. We are already wanted.
A Closing Invitation
When your houses are finished, look at them for a moment. Imagine one of those little houses as a picture of your life with Jesus. There is a light on. The door is open. You are expected and you belong there.
And sit for a moment with this wondering:
Jesus, what would it look like for me to make my home in your love today?