Photo by Mary Catherine Meirink November 1, 2026 at the Vanderbilt Summer Home in Newport, Rhode Island
We are back from a wonderful family vacation to NYC along with a drive to Newport, Rhode Island. No wonder people kept telling us to visit the mansions in Newport. They weren’t kidding! We took their advice and toured the Vanderbilt Summer Home (Breaker House). A couple of things went through my mind as I walked the great halls.
One, we are created in God's image and God is a creator. I am still flabbergasted at the man made beauty. The staircase in the photo above is an example.
Two, I noticed how my amazement started to become envy of what it might have been like to live in such a place. That's when I reminded myself that this earth is not my final destination. My greatest reward will be living forever in the presence of the Lord and enjoying His beauty with God's family in His household.
A song stirred and I hummed quietly throughout the rest of my tour.
I'd rather have Jesus than silver and gold. I'd rather be His than have riches untold. I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords me.
Truly, though. This place was amazing! Imagine what awaits in our eternal home. Wow!