Winter Is Here

In like a lamb, out like a lion. Maybe, but I know something is different about today. For starters, it is COLD. My fingers are numb just trying to type right now. My toes are equally numb. I love it. This weather propels me. It gives me motivation and relaxes and soothes my spirit. I know that sounds backwards, but I love the dreary days. There is something about them that takes the pressure off, unlike sunny days where you feel you MUST take advantage of the rays and the warmth and do as much outside as possible. Don't get me wrong. I live for days like that, for days outdoors, warmth, sun, beauty in nature, long hikes to walk and talk about the goodness of God. Just as much as I live for those days, I breathe for these. 

So, where's the snow? I'm anxiously awaiting it, even just a few snowflakes, though my heart longs for a BURST of excitement in a total whiteout. Snow is white and thick and covers like a blanket. I feel as though it covers me just the same. The world looks so different when covered in snow. Snow purifies, cleans. It's silent yet powerful. It reminds me of the way God speaks to me.

"Your voice wasn't in a bush burning

No, Your voice wasn't in a rushing wind

It was still

It was small

It was hidden

You came like a winter snow

Quiet, soft, and slow

Falling from the sky

In the night

To the earth below"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpHiAmL8-b0

Check it out. Audrey Assad has a gorgeous voice. 

All of God's creation cries out declaring that HE is the Lord. The snow speaks for itself. What a beautiful representation of the Father's purifying love for me, for you.

"Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your steadfast love;

according to your abundant mercy

blot out my transgressions.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,

and cleanse me from my sin!" -Psalm 51: 1&2

Jesus, bring a healing, cleansing, purifying snow on Your people. Make us new, Your sons and daughters, as we recognize and claim our righteousness in You. Break and refine us. Use us as Your servants. Holy Spirit of God, comfort us in our afflictions and revive us. Move us to rejoice in the freedom Christ has granted us. Move us to shine for You to those who have been silenced. Move us to raise our voices for freedom from slavery and sin. Thank you for redeeming Your people. Thank You for giving us immeasurably more. Speak to us just as You entered this world, and help us to be attentive to Your voice. Your unfailing love is better than life! We praise You, God, for Your goodness and unfailing love!