In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made
John1:1-3
Dug deep down in time, against a perfect wintry sky; layers of life are forever laced among my cattail reeds.
It’s there that strong beams of sun pool despite stagnant times, truths and tales; as stretched years unfold.
Chick-a-dees crowd in winter, spring peepers chime with thaw, Sandhill crane saunters in summer, brittle leaves gather in autumn.
Above in towering pines I catch a glimpse of tail feather; a sudden movement swoops, opens wings and dives for dinner.
But as winter settles snowy tuffs, the muskrat beckons from his kettled home; among the broken reeds rooted deep in folds of time.
They who dwell at the ends of the earth stand in awe of Your signs; You make the sunrise and the sunset shout for joy.
Psalm 65:8
There are few things to appreciate during the month of chilly January in Wisconsin. When wind chills are below zero and with snow piling up it’s hard to remain positive. Yet, I have found pleasure in January’s gorgeous sunsets. A snow white canvas compliments the early evening splash of color. Despite dreary January’s frosty days, the warm sky brings pleasure if only for a few minutes.
Trials in life resemble fidget January; bleak and harsh as time trickles by. It’s easy for feelings of hopelessness to over-take joy. Loneliness can creep in one’s life leaving a feeling of great defeat. Is there nothing promising during the trials of life?
Psalm 65 was written by David. It may have been a song of praise written during a drought. Also, there is information that claims it was sung later by the people coming out of captivity. I’m sure it has a rich history of praise to God through time
Near the beginning of the Psalm it says, “You who listen to prayer, all people will come to You.” Nothing has changed through the years. If heartache has found a corner of your life, remember God is available. He listens to the cry of those who love Him and have a desire to obey His laws.
It is said after the storm comes a rainbow. Consider before the darkness a sunset strikes the sky and night breaks way to morning’s sunrise.
P. Wolf
A mouth open in unceasing prayer will result in open eyes that see faith clearly, so pray in the darkness, even if there seems to be no hope of light. When God, who is light, moves a poor sinner to plead and cry out with the commitment to continue until the blessing comes, he doesn’t even consider disregarding that poor crying heart. Perseverance in prayer is a sure sign that the day of opening the eyes of the blind is near.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
I Corinthians 15:58
It’s early morning and the local owls are hooting. I’ve sighted only a few this last year. Lovely creatures in their bold stance. Sturdy, feathered birds who seem to understand commitment.
I am amazed that in the dead of winter they begin their courtship. During February’s Valentines Day month, owls seek a mate. Their relationship will last a lifetime.
Eggs are laid in March. For a month, mother owl sits daily on the fragile eggs. Sleet, snow and stormy winds come; yet she endures. The male brings her food during this trying time. Dedicated and devoted they are in caring for their offspring.
Taking the theme of commitment a bit further, consider one’s relationship with Jesus. Is there a devotion to Him like the owls have towards each other? Dedication takes work. May God put a desire in your heart to grow in a committed relationship with Him.
Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Matthew 6:31-33
As another year comes to a close, some people may be thankful for God’s provisions. While others, with disappointment, may still be waiting for their prayers to be answered. “Is God really there? Has He forgotten me?”
There is assurance that God is there and loves those who love Him dearly.
Waiting is a hard thing. It’s those exaggerated moments where the battle is being played out. Can you place your trust in God or will the devil have the final victory?
I saw a dozen or more robins a few weeks ago. It was an early cold morning. Frost hugged frozen branches. The air was crisp and my fingers numb. Suddenly my dog stopped. He studied a small knoll just a few feet away. It was then I heard the rustling of dried leaves. There was a flutter and pecking everywhere in the woodsy spot.
“Squirrels,” I thought.
It took awhile for my eyes to adjust to the earthy camouflage. Then I saw them. There were dozens of robins tossing debris everywhere. These humble birds had gathered in a sheltered area collecting their morning grub. The ground was too frozen for worms, so they searched for other eatable delights.
God promised to provide for the needs of those who love Him. Do you love God? Really love Him? If so, prayerfully continue to wait on God. He has a special purpose for your life. You might not get the worms you desire, but He will make sure your needs are taken care of.
I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12
As the darkest day of the year approaches, I think of the Light. Jesus’s words, in the book of John, are reassuring to those who have traveled a difficult year. Even to those who have battled with sin and have lost.
There is no doubt sin brings elements of darkness to life. It is so easy to point out the sins of other people. Let’s read the verse a little earlier in this chapter, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” That line alone puts things in perspective.
We aren’t much different than the religious leaders and godly men who walked the dusty, crowded street with Jesus. In ways, we challenge Jesus by ignoring His words and turning to our own righteous ways. Unfortunately, everyone cannot be correct.
As darker days of December veil each new day, remember God brought “Light” into the world on Christmas Day, Jesus. He was sent to consume the darkness of sin so we could live in His light.
Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12
What if mild Mary long ago refused the holy messenger that came to her, as weary, arid desert sands blew; blew silently across lonesome land.
What if Joseph had turned her away when angels visited his troubling dreams? Beads of sweat warmed he’s worried brow; brow burdened with disappointment.
What if the modest family had not gone; when called to little town of Bethlehem Tucked smartly within rocky, hilly earth; earth set aside for the Promised One.
What if meager manger had been empty; a sparse shelter that wonderful holy night? No animals to sing His lovely lullaby; lullaby hopefully for all of mankind.
What if burly shepherds doubted the things they heard in night skies? Songs of the newborn Baby King; King to reign in Heaven on high.
What if the wealthy magi turned back tired of travel across new lands? Weary of following the star bright; bright and brilliant across inky night.
What if Christmas was forever veiled among gifts, garland and guides? No baby King Jesus to come to save; save sinful folk just like you and I.
Patti Wolf 