White As Snow
In my newsletter this week, I would like us to reflect on the snow showers that we experienced today. When hearing the news that snow was coming, I was in disbelief because a lot of times the meteorologists miss the mark. But for some reason, I knew it would be here this time. With this said, as I am writing this from my office at home, and I am looking out at a beautiful field that was once covered with brown grass and I have to say that I am mesmerized at how quickly it’s becoming white. To me, I always love having at least one snow shower during the year because it is so pretty. Though my favorite season is Summer, I do enjoy the first snow fall. How about you? Many may disagree, but I think it is breathtaking. I love the statement that Charles Pope shares: “Not everyone likes snow but it is an amazing work of God. He takes a barren winter landscape and creates it anew. I can almost hear the Lord saying, “Behold, I make all things new!” Hearing this statement and seeing the beauty of the first snow fall, I can’t help but feel excited and in awe of God’s canvas. The snow is not only beautiful, but it gives many people a childlike excitement to the point of wanting to go out and play in it. The joy of sledding, building snow men and having snowball fights is something that various people do when they experience the winter blast. It can be one of the most precious gifts and yet so unexpected. However, one thing that we tend to forget is that this small gift has been poured down from the heavens and we should never miss the glory of the Lord. Much the same as a picturesque snowy landscape can be tainted by long brown grass, our lives can also be tainted with sin. But like the grass, our lives can be covered with snow when we have the Holy Spirit that falls upon us once we surrender and repent of our sins. For me, when I received this gift, my life was significantly different and everything that kept me bound has now been wiped clean and is a white as snow. Through the process, I was able to lay down my burdens at the cross and was given a new life - I was overwhelmed with joy and found myself having a childlike excitement as mentioned above. There has never been a better day in my life! So thinking about your life, what do you need to lay at the cross?
He will tell you how you and everyone in your household can be saved!’ “As I began to speak,” Peter continued, “the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as he fell on us at the beginning.
Acts 11:14-15
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
What sins entice you to walk a slippery slope?
How will you prevent yourself from falling into the trap?
Will you seek God first and ask Him to help you redirect your attention so you do not act upon the sin and fall?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - When you are in doubt, remember He “Falls Down Like Rain”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlTJyHox-_A