"A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong, gives it a superficial appearance of  being right, and raises at first a formidable outcry in defense of custom"
                                                                    

This quote is from the Thomas Paine's introduction to Common Sense. We have recently been studying the Revolutionary period in American history, and this quote has really stuck with me.  It is so very applicable to every aspect of life. Culture is such a driving force behind our actions, but should it be? Even for Christians, who use the Bible as a compass, how much does our culture affect how we interpret Scripture? These are just some thoughts that have been running around in my head lately.  The older I get the more I find myself questioning things I previously accepted as true.

One of my projects this year is putting together a home economics course for Miss Sunshine. In previewing some reading selections, I came across this title.



It is a very uplifting book.  Here is an excerpt from the preface:

Of course housework is about making a home, but a Christian home, properly understood, is never just for one's own family. A Christian home overflows its boundaries; it is an outpost of the kingdom of God, where the hungry are fed and the naked are clothed and there is room enough for everyone.

Keeping house can be a very mundane activity. It is certainly repetitive, and the kinds of work that it involves are varied enough that few people enjoy all of them equally. But at the very same time, housekeeping is about practicing sacred disciplines and creating sacred space, for the sake of Christ as we encounter him in our fellow household members and in neighbors, strangers, and guests.

This had made a big impact on me. Although I know that what I do on a daily basis is valuable, most days I don't  feel  like it is. I need to remember that I am called to be a servant of Christ in all things, even the daily chores.

History

Yesterday, we watched  Liberty! The American Revolution.

 

I really love this documentary. Besides the reenactment scenes, it includes first-hand accounts read by actors whose are dressed for the part.  The background music is also very moving and draws the viewer in. This is my second time watching this documentary and each time I have come away with a much better understanding of not only the course of the war, but a deeper appreciation of all that our fore-fathers endured to give us the freedoms we enjoy today. Definitely something I want my kids to know.

God Bless America.