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Winter Warmth

Here we are already in the very middle of the first month of the year 2012.  I left last year with peace only to be ushered into unusual heat.  All around, it looks like winter.  Trees stand bare, the grass is patchy brown, and all the roses are pruned to thorny stems.  Yet, the air is warm and at times downright hot.  Only the night time brings a faint reminder of our season with colder winds.  Yep, even nature seems so "topsy turvey".  

Throughout these days of sorting out, peace still resides in my heart.  I have once again realized that there will always be things, circumstances, situations, that will challenge me for that peace.  Yes, there are chronic illnesses and conditions, moods and attitudes that often emerge in our lives.  I cannot fix them or make them go away.  I cannot always resolve the situation or the time.  I am recognizing my finiteness.  I am realizing my limits.  I have come to grips with my ability versus God's ability. . .

I had a great conversation with my son the other day, who made a profound statement regarding my thoughts without even realizing it.  He enjoys his work as a behavioral health specialist and has recognized that there comes a point when an individual who is emotionally unable to think or respond clearly must trust the ones who are--i.e. the staff who are there to keep them safe and bear their burden.  The same holds true for me, I must trust the One who gave me life, who brought me new life through Jesus Christ, and who will be faithful to see me through this life with any unforeseen, unplanned event or outcome. Wow, that is awesome to realize the Resource available for me!

It's like looking out my kitchen window last evening.  The sky was gray and cloudy, but the evening sun shone beautifully on the mountain peak.  It seemed to once again signify hope amidst a darkened world.  So, although I did recoil when hit with so much at the start of this year, I found the winter warmth of God's abiding peace and grace. . .  

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