Ecclesiastes 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven
Does this include winter? The season of winter has a bad
reputation. Most people I ask would say winter is their least favorite season.
Not too many of us embrace winter: too dark, too cold, too long. Ice, snow,
blustery winds. But we don’t want to miss the gifts of winter: the quietness of
snow falling, the icy trees that glisten in the bright sun and look like
Christmas decorations, the crisp clean air, the clear blue sky, and the clear
night sky that reveals stars not seen in other seasons.
A former TUMC pastor said “winter offers us a time to reflect,
remember and give thanks. There is a grace in the quietness and solitude of
winter which is unlike any other season.” I find it interesting that Lent, a
time of reflection, begins in winter. Many folks try to escape winter, but I
think God gave us winter to teach us the lessons of slowing down, refreshing,
reflecting and resting.
The Lord says, “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and
flourish…so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me
empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I
sent it” Isaiah 55:10-11
“May your winter places be kissed by light.” - John O’Donohue
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