January 30
"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it."-Isaiah 55:10-11 (NRSV)
Winter can be a beautiful time. When the snow covers the earth gently and the moon shines brilliantly across a star studded January night sky, the beauty reflected often seems holy. Such moments allows us a time of quiet to reflect on the awesome nature of God's creation. There is perhaps nothing more enticing than the beauty of a new fallen snow as it covers the wounds and scars of earth and hides the challenges of hidden obstacles and ugly landscapes. At the same time winter is preparation for new flowers and new fruit. Under the snow, in the unseen depths something is going on. It’s only on the surface that it looks like death. Under the surface life is active and stirring! Roots are filling up with nourishment, and buds are bracing themselves for spring.
We can also experience spiritual or emotional winters in our life when we are best with icicles of indifference. These seasons may also include blizzards of broken dreams or snows of shame. Spiritual winters can be devastating but God promises in our text today that his Word "shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it." (Is.55:10) Whether you are experiencing a physical, spiritual, emotional, or an actual winter in your life this January, you are still surrounded by God's perfect love. God’s plans for you and all his children are still good. This time will pass. Be prepared, one day you’ll suddenly become aware of an irresistible pull in your spirit that tells you winter is past, and the time for joy and singing is upon you again! (SS2:11-12) God's Word promises God makes “everything beautiful in its time.” (Eccl.3:11) This includes all the seasons and changes in your life. Beauty awaits you! Rejoice!
Prayer: God, Thank you for all the Seasons in my Life. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: Seasons change. God's Word remains!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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