When David and I bought a house 14 years ago, four people, one cat and one dog moved in.  Today we live in a parsonage in Simpsonville, SC that houses two people and two cats; two empty bedrooms and only the memory of our furry dog – Frodo.

Life moves on… that’s why every time I read Proverbs 14, the 4^th verse causes me to reflect on this truth:

“Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; but much increase comes by the strength of an ox.”  (NKJV)

When my kids were part of the household, I remember bemoaning the work it required to keep “the trough clean!”  Washing clothes, tidying the bathrooms, picking up toys, cooking and cleaning up afterwards were daily occurrences.  There may have even been a time or two that I whined in my mind about taking care of my husband as well. J

Yes, taking care of a family is work, work, work.  But when we consider the alternative – an empty house with no one but ourselves to clean up after – it will help change our attitude.  Yes, life moves on.  Our children grow up and our pets pass on; but while we have them with us, may we remember that an increase in work can also mean an increase in joy and purpose.

By all means, keep the trough clean, but do it with a smile on your face and a song in your heart.  It will help turn drudgery to delight.