Winter

Ecclesiastes 3: 1;4
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…
…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance."

The snow is falling, the ground is white, and there is no visible sign of life anywhere. As I walk through the forest, my worn, leather boots leave marks tracing the paths I have chosen. Although, it is unclear in the present, there is a purpose for this journey. The leaves have long fallen, and have left the trees cold and barren. The wind blows against my face, stinging with every gust. Every door that shuts, relationship failed, and heartache begins to throb more painfully. Winter has settled in my heart, and in my life.

Alone and confused, I cry out to the Lord, but I hear no response. Where have you gone? It feels as if you were here once, and now I am left abandoned and bruised. I trust that you have brought me here for a purpose, but the answer evades me. I long for the fresh scent of flowers and the warmth of the summer sun again. Take me back to a place of peace of joy.

I hear a whisper in the distance, and begin walking faster towards the sound. It is saying, "Come all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. I will be your comfort, your strength." In my heart, I know there is hope beyond the woods, but I must trust that the Lord has a purpose for this season in my life. He will use both the times of laughter, as well as the tear-filled moments to refine me into a woman more radiant and faithful. Somewhere in the despair and darkness, He has created a plan for my life to prosper me, not to harm me.

With those soothing words of encouragement, I decided to take a step of faith, and trust in the faint whisper. Suddenly, a change began to occur in my heart. Slowly, I felt it thawing and softening. A warming sensation came over me, and my fear was replaced with security. Suddenly, the world around me was transformed into a winter wonderland. I looked up to the sky and watched the snowfall softly down, and caught a snowflake on my eyelash. How delightful it all seemed to me now. It seems as if, we must embrace the hard times for only then can we truly see the beauty in our surroundings.

As I walk through the woods, I can carry on with confidence because I know that soon enough there will be a clearing. Spring is just around the corner, and His faithfulness will endure forever.