Stories and Foundations
Old houses and outbuildings dot the rural landscape of eastern Ohio where I live. Some of the structures have been rebuilt or at least maintained for present-day use. Others have been left in various states of disrepair.
Driving by these buildings, I sometimes wonder about their past. Thoughts of the pride of the family that built one of these places may come to mind.
I can see a couple who are proud to own their own home. Maybe in that moment of imagination, I can envision a family gathered around a meal table, or parents tucking their small children in after bedtime prayers had been said. Perhaps one can picture adult children coming back home to visit with their own families.
An old barn brings thoughts of a farmer doing his evening chores. One can almost hear the conversations that are happening between a father and his son or daughter. Topics could range from an afternoon spent fishing in a local stream to what’s inside the latest Sears catalog. Or the man may be talking to his wife or a neighbor about last Sunday’s sermon or the most recent livestock market prices at the local sale barn.
I can understand some of the reasons why these old buildings are left to slowly crumble into oblivion. They can be a financial burden to maintain, and perhaps have outlived their usefulness.
Yet, there’s a portion of me that is also saddened. They were part of a family’s life. Not just that, but houses, barns and other buildings also tell a story about a community.
That these old structures are still standing, even in rough condition, is a testament to their sturdiness. Often constructed from locally-sourced lumber, and built with the help of family and neighbors, they speak to a time when people truly cared about one another – and had a sense of deep community pride and service.
These old buildings are from a different time. In a world that is filled with faux replicas and cheap imitations – take it from someone who delivers building materials, structures from another era help remind us of the value of people and community. Built to hold up against the storms of life, they help us recognize our own need for a solid foundation – one that can withstand any weather we may face.
In life, I’ve found that the perfect foundation can only be found in the Heavenly Father. Every other belief, person and item is temporary. If we place our hope in them, our footing will eventually erode and wash away. Yet, God has promised to never leave or abandon us – and He has continually proved to be true to His Word.
Next time you see an old building, consider the stories that it could tell if only it were able to talk. Then look at its foundation and see what’s holding it up – and don’t forget that buildings and people both need to be built on solid rock.
Have a great day! 😊
