Day 3: The Chill of Winter

Isaiah 55:10-11
“For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there, but water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

Every year we witness the rhythm of nature, bringing forth the different seasons and all the changes and challenges that go with them. For many folks the onset of the chillier temperatures of Autumn and Winter are met with dread and, for some, simply endured. Others, like me, delight in the crisp, cold days of Winter with mounds of snow, crockpot dinners, crackling fires, and long stretches when I am content to stay at home and not venture out, embracing the motto, “All I need is tea, warm socks, and a good book.”

During the chill of Winter, our bodies have a natural need for more food, sleep, and warmth; like bears, we tend to hibernate and rest. It’s a period of dormancy, a time to “chill.” After all, our poor bodies may be begging for a break after coming through Christmas, the most hectic season of the year. It’s a good time for a reset, to change our compulsion from “doing” to just “being”—being in His presence, hearing His voice. Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Rest! Be still and know I am God. I rule the nations and I rule the earth.” God has given us permission to cease from striving— and perhaps even serving—for a time, to clear our minds, renew our strength and enthusiasm, draw us closer to Him, and reflect on His calling upon our lives. For some of us that is hard, especially when we begin to feel sluggish or unproductive. We may think that we are letting others down or even ourselves as we see all the goals and resolutions we set in January fly out the window in February, taken away by Winter’s winds!

As we enjoy the quiet weeks of this Winter season, remember that Spring will not be far behind. Though the ground looks quiet and serene we can learn a lot from and be inspired by what is going on outside, underneath the snow. “Don’t think the garden loses its ecstasy in Winter; it may be quiet but the roots are down there riotous!* May we be still, seek Him more deeply, and know that our God is making “riotous” the roots of faith that have been firmly planted in our hearts, ready to spring forth into a new season.

Father in Heaven, how we thank You for the seasons and the benefits You bring with them, even the cold winds, the snow, and ice. All have their purpose for which we are grateful. Be with us today as we embrace this season as You accomplish what You please in it, in us, and for Your glory. In Your name we pray. Amen.

*quote by Rumi

~ painting by John Sloane