When we travel to California to visit with family we stay in a local hotel. We initially found one that was inexpensive, but after staying there a few times it was evident why it was inexpensive. They were in a perpetual remodeling project, the hotel front desk staff was rude, our entrance bordered an alley filled with trash and people asking for money, cigarettes or booze. Even though we were in a wing already remodeled, the blinds didn’t work, and once our doorknob fell off!
After several stays we decided to look for a new place. We chose the Hampton Inn in Salida, easy access, lovely rooms, wonderful breakfast, and a staff that constantly smiles. It costs a little more to stay there but it is well worth it. We’ve decided that the Hampton is our dwelling place when we visit our California kids.
I pray “that [God] would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.” [Eph 3:16-17 NKJV]
There are 2 Greek verbs (paroiko & katoikeo) for dwelling. Paroiko means to inhabit a place as a stranger or alien. Katoikeo, on the other hand, means to settle down and refers to a permanent as opposed to a temporary abode.
Paul uses Katoikeo when he describes the fullness of the Godhead abiding in Christ in Colossians 1:19 and for Christ’s abiding in the believer’s heart in the verse above.
When Christ Jesus comes to “dwell” in our hearts through faith, He makes it His own home. We are a permanent dwelling for the Master, not a hotel where He is treated like a visitor. Truly Amazing!
