A Lesson in Hardwood Floors - from a Child's Perspective!

Ok...so yesterday I was talking with the boys over lunch when my oldest asked, "Mom, wouldn't it be cool if they made hardwood floors that looked nice like these, but you didn't have to worry about water on them or scratches or anything?" -- Keep in mind this is coming off the heels of a week with 5 children in the house (cousins visiting) and me reminding them all week to pick up wet towels and not to drag things across the floor...And to think, I had tried not to nag about it! Somehow, I had done it anyway, I guess!-- Ok...so back to the story. After his comment, I thought about it and responded that indeed, they do make a laminate that looks like hardwood but doesn't get scratched or harmed by water, etc. To this he said "Well, why in the world would ANYONE want this stuff?" I tried to explain that real hardwood is considered nicer or more valuable...but even as I said the words I realized that it was not making any sense to me either - as I talked, I realized two important lessons from a child's perspective of hardwood floors:

1. Why do we want something just because the world says it is more valuable - when it actually is harder to keep up with, easily damaged and not as practical? It looks the same...so we just want it because someone says it is more valuable? How many other areas of my life do I do this in? Fashion? The latest gadgets? The car I drive (ok...so not my beat up van - but you know what I mean)...how easily we are influenced with what the world sees as success or valuable and we miss what is truly important.

But then...I looked at it another way -

2. How many times does something look good on the outside - but it isn't the real thing? You know, we get dressed up, put on our smiles and look the part at church each Sunday, but deep inside - if anyone could see our hearts - they would know all that we are carrying...the secret sin that we won't relinquish, the bitterness toward our brothers and sisters in Christ or, scarier still - that we look the part but we know that we don't have the relationship with Christ that others have around us....we have played the role but have never submitted our life to Him and in repentance and faith - trusted Him for salvation....

You see...when you look at hardwood floors - sometimes the answers are not easy! But, leave it to your kids to make you THINK!! So...what is it that you value? What equals success in your life - and what message have you sent your children about what true success is? Having the right stuff? Or seeing the value of things the way God sees them.

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments,for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord , and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Proverbs 3:1-8