ARE YOU USING YOUR FRONT PORCH AS A PLEASING PLACE OF MINISTRY?
Summer is one of my favorite seasons, because it allows me to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the outside. Blue skies, swaying trees and butterflies make me fall in love with this outdoor space called the “front porch.” It truly is a setting where I can embrace the spirit of gratitude, grace and feel God’s love.
I am reminded of a poem I see often. It gives suggestions about how we are to experience the front porch.
PORCH RULES
Listen to the birds
Relax
Your feet up
With family and friends
Naps
Together
A cold drink
The sunset
The view
(Author unknown)
My dear neighbor for more than twenty years recently moved back to Maine. As we spent time together on my front porch, she reminded me that I am a “porch sitter.” I laughed, realizing that her concept clearly described me.
I truly enjoy sitting on my front porch. I am in awe of God’s beauty as I look at the grass, trees, flowers, and share special opportunities to talk with neighbors. It is a time where I can enjoy the moment.
My love for the front porch comes from childhood. Our front porch was the central hub of our home. It was and still is our most popular outdoor space. Everyone one who enters is welcomed. Large family gatherings always result in a crowded front porch, because it is considered our “overflow” room.
I remember beautiful, intimate porch experiences I have shared with my mother, brothers and other family members. It’s something about the front porch, where we always felt relaxed, loved and was encouraged to dream.
Oh, what stories we told on our front porch. I recently went shopping in a home décor store, and I saw a plaque that said:
“What happens on the porch stays on the porch”
This could be our family’s mantra. Our storytelling was powerful. We shared secrets and laughed with fullness of joy, peace, and gratitude.
Unfortunately, the American porch culture has changed. Back in the day, the porch was one of our favorite spaces in the home. Air conditioning, television, computers and other technological gadgets have moved us inside.
*Have you lost an appreciation for your front porch?
*Is your front porch a pleasing place of ministry?
We can gain appreciation for the front porch by examining its biblical significance. The porch was many times viewed as the entrance to the temple. Sometimes it was referred to as the porticoe, veranda, or vestibule.
In John 10: 23 it says: “And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.”
God and His disciples used the front porch as a powerful place of ministry.
The porch of Solomon was a special place for Jesus. He was seen often teaching and speaking to the people. Later after his death, the disciples gathered there often.
Acts 5:12 discusses the apostles observations of the many signs and wonders among the people, as they were all on one accord on Solomon’s porticoe.
Your front porch is “holy ground.” It is truly the entrance to God’s temple. Your home where people will be blessed, healed and set free. This vision allows your front porch to become a pleasing place of ministry where God’s presence is felt. Use this space to relax, reduce stress, and enjoy the fellowship of others.
Your front porch can become a powerful “praying closet” where you commune with God. Let Him speak to you while you are sitting on your front porch, providing you with clarity and direction.
Every porch has its own personality, style and décor. Develop a front porch décor that meets your family needs. Use the five senses God has blessed you with to incorporate these gifts into your outdoor spaces. What do you see, hear, smell, taste and touch in your outdoor space?
Just as you would decorate the inside of your home, also decorate your front porch. Make sure you have comfortable chairs, a table where one can place drinks, colorful pillows, throws and rugs. These special touches will contribute to a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere.
Is your front porch a pleasing place of ministry?
Take time to reflect and journal about the following questions.
*Do you have childhood memories of “front porch experiences?” If so,
please describe?
*What front porch experiences have you created in your home?
*If you do not have a front porch, what creative space can you simulate?
(i.e., going to the park, sitting on a bench, etc).
*Do you use your front porch experience to commune with God? If so,
Describe.
*How can you make your front porch more inviting?
Enjoy the summer and your front porch. You will receive many unexpected blessings!
Blessings,
Nita
