Minnesotans just received the kind of snowfall we long for—at Christmas! But here we are, in the middle of October, already being pummeled with temperatures and precipitation that have all the markings of winter! Snowplows were already called to action. Salt and sand were distributed onto unsuspecting roads. Shovels were wrestled out of storage. And, once again—but oh, so early this year—drivers had to quickly shift mental gears and recall how to navigate icy conditions. It’s been surprising, to say the least, and challenging for many who, like me, were hoping to savor the remaining remnants of autumn right up to the pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving. But the weather, like so many things in life, is not up to me.
Still, though not my first choice, it was magnificent to watch the plump, wet flakes filling the air yesterday. In a flurry of activity it blanketed our leaf-covered ground and frosted every tree branch with exquisite precision. Kids all over the state were excited at the prospect of sledding and building forts and having snowball fights. Dogs everywhere romped through the newly-arrived drifts. And, this morning there was something so pristine in the white landscape—the air so clear and still. Even those who have no appreciation for winter whatsoever have had to admit it is stunningly. . .
b e a u t i f u l.
Life can often imitate an unexpected snowfall. We can be caught completely off-guard by circumstances that tumble into our laps. Suddenly we have to change our plans, scramble to cope, and feel tested to our core as we try to navigate treacherous situations. It’s not what we wanted—not what we planned. There is shock and challenge and disappointment. It happens to everyone at some point in time and, let’s be honest, 2020 has felt that way to many of us.
So how do we find anything good in times that feel anything but? This can be a tall order, but one thing is certain. God’s care and compassion for us never diminishes or waivers, even during difficult times. In fact, when our hearts are breaking He draws ever closer (Psalm 34:18). His plans for us are good and He can be relied on to steady us and guide us no matter how deep the snowdrifts are that we’re slugging through. God will use these things for our benefit (see: The Question to Answer). Holding tightly to His Word and His promises can open our eyes to a greater understanding during our struggles and sometimes even an appreciation for their purpose. And, who knows—given enough time—we may even get a glimpse of the aftermath and it may just be something we consider to be. . .b e a u t i f u l.
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” - Lamentations 3:22-23