Winter not-so-blues…
As i walked my dog in our neighborhood, feet sloshing through puddles on the ground, I breathed deep the winter air.
Under my breath, I whispered, “thank you, Jesus.”
For many, many years, I hated this time of year.
I would pout and moan and groan during this entire month because I longed for sunshine and warmth.
Lately, I have come to lean into this season.
The gloomy, the wet, the cold, the quiet…
I see it differently now.
Walking along that side walk, I saw trees bare limbed, standing tall and high.
I noticed birds perched on those magnificent strong limbs.
Rain drops dripping down those barren tree arms, I thought to myself, they are resting.
Waiting patiently for Spring, when blooms will come, covering their bareness with beautiful color and fullness.
Those trees know that this is a season. A season of rest.
This past month, I am sleeping in a little later, staying less active.
My body is preparing for Spring and Summer when life is full and busy and bustling.
Honestly, I never really thought about that before now.
God, The Creator of all, knew we needed time to rest. To be still. To be planted, and watered by the winter season.
Also, I find myself praying more. Seeking His Voice more. Devouring His Holy Word.
The quieter season allows for this.
I remember when my son was in middle school.
So many times, during those years, I felt a nudge to pray, and pray fervently.
I would go to my closet and fall down on my face and pray.
it almost felt silly, because nothing was really happening, I could just feel that I needed to pray over him.
High school came and all of those prayers that were planted, God harvested. Not a single prayer was wasted in that closet.
Little did I know how desperately I would need those prayers in the years to come.
I see winter differently now.
I see it as a wonderland of hope.
Hope in what is to come
Hope in knowing without a doubt that Spring is coming. In its time.
Hope that all of these prayers, these long dark days, are like water to the seed beneath the cold and wet ground.
Those trees know. They don’t fret or get anxious and worried. They stand tall and still. Knowing their fullness is on the way.
So, they rest in the quiet air.
God gives us seasons for a reason. Each one is vital to our hearts.
We just have to lean into them and ask God, “what do you have for me here?”
I have started to include daily in my gratitude journal…
”I am so very thankful for….winter.”
Who ever thought I would say that? Surely not this spring and summer loving sunshine seeking girl!
He is Good.
He is Faithful.
Not a season, not a day, is wasted.
We just have to find the good in it.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens..
Ecclesiastes 3:1
embracing winter— a little more each day,
jill
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