I wrote this a few years ago but thought I'd share it here with you. If you disagree with it or hate it, that's fine, we can still be friends. Just between you and me, I don't even have a fireplace. But I can still guard the hearth. . .
GUARDIAN OF THE HEARTH
It is the floor of a fireplace.
It is a vital center of the home.
It is synonymous with the word “home” itself.
The hearth was a place where all in the house would gather for warmth, light, company, and nourishment. It was quite literally
The heart of the home.
Therefore, a guardian of the hearth is one who watches over and protects home and family. A guardian of the hearth can be anyone. But is most likely, you. A guardian of the hearth may have been trained to be such from childhood. A pillar, generations in the making. Or she may be a pioneer in her field. She may have a quiver full of children, a bustling household, a single companion at her side or perhaps she is a family of one. No matter, her well-being and her refuge is of sacred importance. And through the years, her residence may change, its residents coming and going through various ages, stages, and phases, but the hearth stays the same.
She should know that the foundation under her feet, supporting her world, is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. She is defending the key components of an eternal family; prayer, scripture study, Sabbath day observance, family home evening, and spiritual growth in general. She is watchful of the nurturing and overall well-being of each spirit in her charge. Including her own. If there is anything virtuous lovely, of good report or praiseworthy, she not only seeks for it but makes it readily available in abundance for all who pass by.
Her motto is, “Charity Never Faileth” Her direction is heaven. Her refuge, on her knees.
A guardian of the hearth should be ready for battle. Daily battle. Dressed always in the armor of God. She is not afraid to recognize the enemy, identify his hiding places, his strongholds, nor his attempts to infiltrate and destroy all that she holds dear. She is not afraid of the enemy at all but rather stares him down with her head held high and with the strength of God, she crushes his head.
A guardian of the hearth is not afraid to be recognized as such. She disregards the opinion of the world and rather, focuses on upholding righteous traditions and cherishing sacred moments. She is in the business of memory-making and is always in search of that positive teaching moment. She is always ready to learn.
A guardian of the hearth should never underestimate her calling, her God-given power, nor her un-acclaimed influence for good.
A guardian of the hearth is beautiful. She is a daughter of God and a child of light. Her countenance is His. When she gives of her time, she gives of her love and His. Her hands are His hands. Her purpose, His.
She should know that while in the service of God, she will never miss out on anything that is truly worthwhile. And if she is ever weary. If she feels run down. If she begins to question her validity in this world, she should remember that her work matters, that she is never alone. Angels will buoy her up. The Holy Spirit will guide and The Son of God will carry her.
Peter, a guardian of the hearth, said to Tabitha, “Daughter, arise.” Christ says it to you; “Daughter, arise!” Don't be ashamed to stand in this holy place he has prepared and reserved for you. YOU are the guardian of this holy place. . . called home.
Take your place and guard it well.
Artwork by Helen Allingham, "In The Nursury"
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