If These Walls Could Speak

Howdy strangers. I know it feels like I’ve been ghosting you lately. It’s not you, it’s me. We are up to our necks in this home build project. I’m one of those crazy people that enjoys the selection process, although I do change my mind A LOT and right before it’s too late.

Before the foundation was laid, I knew there were things I would want to add to make our home unique. One idea stuck out to me: writing verses on the framework of our new walls. The really rulesy part of me wanted to monitor the selection of verses and ensure no one drew butts. That part of me doesn’t stand a chance in this family, so you can be sure there are both portraits of butts and obscure Bible verses gracing those halls. That doesn’t include the sharks, handprints, and countless other drawings and scribbles that will be hidden under drywall.

We waited for nice weather, but when it finally happened we were having a rough day. There were lots of arguments and I was frustrated with the kids. My husband was sick for over two weeks and out of commission, so I felt like I was carrying far too many loads to remain sane. I almost cancelled going to the house because my attitude and my actions were less than lovely that day. It felt hypocritical to run my mouth one moment and write Bible verses in the next.

In the midst of feeling torn, the words from “Do it Again” played in my mind. Your promise still stands, great is your faithfulness. I’m still in your hands. You’ve never failed me yet. It was a sweet reminder that even on my worst day (which this certainly was not), God hasn’t abandoned me. His Word is still true. It was the shift in perspective that I needed.

The kids ran from room to room, making sure no one came into “their room” as they hid words and drawings on the walls and floor. I was so thankful that we went for it and made time to do this. Many of their choices would not have been my own, but that’s what makes it unique to them. We each found words that meant something to us (or said cool things like “snake charmer” and “ax”) and claimed them in writing.

There’s no voodoo magic or hidden protection here. These reminders will disappear as soon as the drywall goes up, but they mark what we believe to be true. Just as the Word is hidden in our hearts, it will also be hidden beneath these walls.

We aren’t perfect. Not even close. But if we keep waiting for that to happen before claiming Truth, we’ll always be waiting. We’ll always be holding the pen but not making a mark. What sort of story will that tell?