The world’s first home lay within the beautiful realms of the Garden of Eden. Its Creator, our Divine Father, meticulously fashioned it for His beloved children, even before their existence. Its splendor surpassed imagination, adorned with a tapestry of nature’s most exquisite offerings – trees, foliage, blossoms, and fruits. Meandering streams bestowed their melodic presence; and many wonderful creatures, both avian and terrestrial, inhabited its sanctuary.

Although the original home took the form of a beautiful garden, every one of our modern dwellings ought to exude a garden-like ambiance. An important part of our earthly endeavors lies in the art of cultivating our homes. Regardless of their simplicity – even if they encompass a mere couple of rented rooms – we should infuse them with all the grace and beauty within our reach. Eden served as humanity’s first home, and we should strive to transform our homes into miniature Gardens of Eden. Whether they are magnificent mansions or humble cottages, they should emanate the fragrance of love and reflect the glory of God.

How can we turn our homes into little Edens? What secrets lie at the core of domestic bliss? If I were to condense them into a single word, I would say, “Christ!” When His presence graces our abode, happiness follows. We need Christ amidst our joy and sorrow, in our abundance and scarcity, in the midst of our business and social gatherings, at the marriage altar and during our lifelong journey as husband and wife. By embracing Jesus in every facet of family life, our home becomes a garden of joy.

Certain homes appear to possess all the necessary elements for perfection. Beauty permeates their essence, and they are equipped with the finest modern amenities and conveniences. Music, art, refinement, and the fruits of luxury find their place within their walls. But a vital ingredient is absent. It is the whisper of Christ’s words: “Peace be to this house.” When Jesus is a cherished Guest, the radiance and harmony of the home-life multiply immeasurably.

However, there is only one way for Christ’s presence to grace our homes, bestow blessings upon our families, and create miniature Gardens of Eden. In times past, grand castles contained small chapels where God was ceremoniously honored on Sundays, while remaining excluded from everyday life during the week. Yet such a manner does not suffice when we seek to welcome Christ into our homes. He will not merely be a secluded Visitor confined to the guest bedroom. He must enter into every facet of our lives. He desires a place within every heart, a seat at our dinner-table, and participation in our conversations. Jesus blesses our homes solely through the lives of those who compose the family circle.

In what way can you make your home a beautiful Eden today? Have you prayed to the Lord Jesus and asked Him to come into your household and fill it with joy and sweetness by His presence?

I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments on this article! Feel free to leave your reflections and ask your questions below.

God bless you and your family, this day and always.

All for our King’s glory,
Christian

photo by Simon Berger  |  Unsplash.com

This post is another installment of Miller’s Monday Musings, a weekly series that is published every Monday on my website. The series features selected writings that have been adapted from the works of James Russell Miller (1840-1912), a much-beloved Christian author and pastor who is well-remembered for his practical thoughts on Christian home and family life. Learn more about this weekly series by clicking here.