Redeeming Winter (and the 3 R’s)

The first snowflakes of the season fall as I put another log on the fire. And my heart warms. This is another day the Lord has made, I can rejoice and be glad in it!

The days may be growing shorter and colder, but who said they have to be dreary?  Cool winds blow. Snow flakes dance on the breeze—fluffy wet uniqueness, as different as you and me. And it’s invigorating and settling at the same time.

snow light

Coming home through the swirling snow in the early dark to a light in the window and an engulfing warmth. Few things are more inviting.

It really is wonderful—the way of the cold months. The busyness of the warmer seasons giving way to a bundled-up period of rest, reflection, and renewal. The three R’s—perfect for the winter season. Our weary minds and bodies revive in the reduced pace of life—if we let them.

Yet, sometimes such days present bleak. In the frigid temperatures, driving winds, and stinging precipitation, we forget about the R’s. We only see cold … and dark … and hardship.

Oh, but there is light. Always there is light. So radiant, we dare not look directly at it. And the warmth has never left.

For the Light of the World wraps us in everlasting warmth and light.

Yet while on earth, snowstorms will still threaten.

And bone-chilling cold will still arrive.

But don’t let winter own you.

Embrace this season as a time to recapture the R’s.

  • Take time to rest in the truth of the Word.
  • Reflect on a life lived in grace.
  • Let Jesus Christ do a work of renewal in your life.

Rest in the truth of the Word, reflect on a life lived in grace, let Jesus Christ do a work of renewal in your life. Click To Tweet

This year redeem winter. Enjoy the light and warmth of hearth while drawing closer to the Creator of it all.

Follow the light in the window and let it guide you to the warmth of Home.

“Then Jesus spoke to them again: ‘I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows Me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.'” (John 8:12)

Share in the Discussion: What memories do you have of winter? How do you keep your spirits up during the short, cold days? 

Linking with Ann Voskamp for my Joy Dare list  for Multitude Mondays (#1161–1181, read them all by clicking here):

  • Stinky & Spud, characters fm Patsy Clairmont bk that Rach loves; Nights home; Daniel made it safely back to college
  • God remains in power despite election results–& will always be; The power of giving thanks; Pumpkin spice Chai tea
  • Jesus is still King; Hoot of an owl in the twilight; Smell of soup simmering on the stove on a cool fall day
  • Second son’s induction into the National Honor Society; Nice long hike with hubby; Deer in the fall–crazy acting
  • A new day tomorrow; The number of great writing conferences to consider; Rest
  • Walking with my girl for my girl; Amazing family and friends; Fast food (such convenience)
  • Rainy day; United States veterans–all heroes in my eyes; Thanksgiving potluck at church

Also linking up with these wonderful sites: 

Grace Laced Mondays

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By His grace ≈

Julie

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Find hope in your real-life struggles. We'll chase it together! I am a wife; mom of 4 (including a young adult daughter with special needs); miscarriage mom of 5; author & follower of Jesus Christ. I write, edit, speak and enjoy everything outdoors.

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