Looking Out on Fresh Snow

I have often commented that I love snow because it makes my lawn look as good as my neighbors. This morning, as I am looking out at the accumulating snow, Holy Spirit has been sharing a few thoughts with me that make me see that comment in a whole new light.

First, He pointed out to me that the quantity of snow on the ground can be measured with some precision. Nevertheless, ones understanding of it depends on background. One member of our household grew up directly in the path of the lake effect snow around Buffalo, New York, USA. There having 3 to 6 feet (1 to 2 meters) of snow is common. The 3 to 6 inches (10 to 20 centimeters) of snow now on the ground here is not even worthy of comment. The idea that businesses, schools, and offices close for the event seems silly. Conversely, another member of the household grew up in the warmth of Virginia, USA, where while snow occasionally fell and when it did most drivers panicked and were incompetent to get from place to place safely. There the idea that everything closed down seemed like simple prudence for the sake of public safety.

Second, Holy Spirit pointed out to me that the beautiful white snow on the ground was His description of the contrast between the life covered by the redemption found only in Jesus and the one remaining lost in sin. He said, even though your sin is as noticeable as bright red scarlet, nevertheless in His forgiving love God will transform you so that you are so clean you will look even cleaner than a fresh white snowfall.

Third, Holy Spirit pointed out, with quiet grief, for many people the clean white fresh fallen snow is as far as Holy Spirit has been permitted to work the transformation. In our yard, under the pretty snow I know there is a very muddy yard with many remaining piles of the dung deposits made by our two large dogs. Indeed, the snow makes it almost impossible to know where I can step without getting a mess on my shoes not acceptable for going back into the house. It looks so pretty on top. But it stinks if I put any weight on it.

The Pharisees, whom Jesus loved, frustrated Him. They were willing to have the beauty of the snow; but, they were too unwilling for Him to clean up the unseen dung. They were unwilling to endure the process of nurturing and protecting the growing grass. They were content so long as no one was noticing anything below the pretty surface.

Jesus wants to lead each of His sheep into the lush green pastures to build strength and health. And He wants to lead each one along the rocky, icy, dangerous trails to bring about maturity, stability, and dependability.

Are we willing to get out of our warm safe houses which look over snow covered beauty to join Jesus in the adventure ?

Jesus, I ask you for grace for each one of us. Enable each one to let go of what we see and think beautiful so we can join you in the adventure of going where we cannot go except we walk with you and choose to agree with you.

With love for you, I remain,

His, thus Yours,

Stuart