Spring is a great reminder of the need for us to continually evaluate and refresh our lives. This year, we’ve been thinking about how important renewal is in every aspect of our lives, specifically our home. Here are a few ways we’ve felt inspired to bring hope and new life to our homes and into our lives:
Let the Light In
One of the most important elements in decorating our homes is the proper use of light. But based on our knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ, decorating with light takes on additional meaning. While a keen use of natural light and beautiful fixtures is appreciated, the ways in which we bring the light of Christ into our homes is of eternal importance. “That which is of God is light: and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24).
Thankfully, we’ve been given the best decorating instructions ever! As we “organize [ourselves]; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God” (D&C 109:8), we can create within our homes a place where light is not only received, but welcomed, and allowed to grow. Spending a little extra time simplifying and refining our decor allows us to focus on what is truly important.
Remember Who You Are
Another way we’ve found to bring new life and renewal to our home is to fill it with things that remind us of who we are and why we are here. “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things” (Articles of Faith 1:13). Why? Because “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh from the Father of lights” (James 1:17).
These good and perfect gifts come in many forms, many that can be appropriately displayed in our homes. Beautiful paintings or photographs and inspiring quotes can remind us of our heavenly home and who we hope to become. What better way to remind us of our divine goals than to fill our homes with things that inspire us and reflect those “gifts from above.”
Share the Love
And if you should bring “save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!” (D&C 18:15). Bringing joy and life into our homes may be as simple as using them as tools to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. Loving and serving in our homes sends a clear message about who we are and what we believe. Inspiring and peaceful surroundings allow others to see how living the teachings of Christ affects our families. Even subtle references to our beliefs in artwork and home decor may facilitate gospel conversations with friends and family, allowing us to share our love for them and our Savior.
As you consider all the ways to bring new life to your homes and lives this spring, remember to keep it simple and realize that what makes a house a home is the family that lives there.
Ashlie Mortensen is the co-founder of Latter-Day Home, a website selling fresh, modern Christian art and home décor. Launched in 2013, Latter-Day Home has been a creative outlet for Ashlie and her husband Owen who are both passionate about art and design as well as raising their five children in northern Utah. Check out the latest designs created for Mother’s Day here.
