It is not really the thought that counts.

Saturday was busy, with a nice trip to the Arboretum in the morning... Of course it is a great place for photos, and even better if you have a great sister-in-law with a family pass (Thanks Julie!).

Of course, after 37 weeks of pregnancy, it doesn't matter how beautiful the setting is, a long walk is tiring for the mom.

After arrival back home, Renee was off to yet another baby shower (AWESOME!) and I had a nice nap.

When I woke up, I wandered around the house a little bit but only accomplished uploading pictures from the morning... nothing really.

In my head though, I thought about putting up the dishes from the dishwasher. That would be a great idea, and it would make Renee happy, I thought.

Except I didn't do it. I was still playing with pictures when she got home.

Thoughts are what we tell people about to feel better about us, but they don't have nearly the impact of doing something, providing for a need, or just giving out of love.

Which comes around (like most things) to faith. This is the theme of James 2. Faith is great, but if it provides no actual change in what you do, there is no point.

19You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.^f Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?

It was a good example that, even though intentions thoughts are good, they are really meaningless much of the time.
As a guy, husband and about-t0-be father, this hits pretty close to home. I can say I love my family every hour, to anyone who is within earshot and it will amount to nothing. But if I take time to put up the dishes ... that means the world.

With the emotional, physical and time demands that are about to be in our house, it is the action that will prove the love. Just like doing the real work of following Jesus shows your faith.

Don J.