Snow Bound With God

     When the temperature is -18 and the wind chill is -45 it would seem crazy to take a walk. But that's exactly what I did. Call me crazy, but it was wonderful! While spending two days on my quarterly discerning retreat with Pastor Janet at our Conference Center in Newton Iowa the snow just couldn't be ignored.

     There was a peace about the freshly fallen snow and in that silence God's presence was everywhere. I could feel the Creators hand upon the land, the animals, and upon me. I was dressed for the cold, as you know "there is no bad weather -- just poor clothing". Of course, one doesn't stay outside for extended periods of time either. But a walk in the snow with our Creator was just what my soul needed.

     I was reminded of the fragile thread of our existence within the context of creation. How easily it is to overlook the world around us when we are rushing about meeting schedules and trying to meet everyone's expectations. Intentional stopping to take in what we rush past, overlook or just think of as bothersome can prove to be the very things that supercharge us to continue our journey.

     Snow -- absolutely beautiful to behold! Snow demands our attention to details. If one is not prepared then one might lose one's life in it's grasp. So goes the same with our Spiritual life. If we don't prepare and pay attention to the details (prayer, study, and relationships) then we might lose our life rather than gain it.

     Take a moment, right now -- look out your window and take in the wonder of creation. Then spend some time, intentional time with your Creator. Feel the presence of the one who knows your name and called you into existence. Enjoy your journey.