“Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods?  Who is like you majestic in holiness, awesome in splendor, doing wonders?”  Exodus 15:11

“We have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us.”  1 John 1:2  

Look out your window.  Yes, there is snow.  Yes, we have experienced frigid mornings and numbing days.  But can you see majesty, feel awe, and marvel at the wonders that are happening?  Beauty is or isn’t; not yes, when we’re “in the mood”; then no, when we’re feeling worn.  Thus, I still see beauty and feel peace with new fallen snow on the trees and shrubs; the sky and clouds, shades of pink and orange, reflecting the still low sun’s light at dawn and dusk.

However … longing for Spring, the lengthening daylight (2 hours since the winter solstice I just read) renews our spirits.  As children of God, we are children of wonder and hope.  We believe what we cannot see.  Beneath the frozen sod daffodils and Hostas are waiting for the ground to thaw so they can ease through the topsoil.  Out of sight, black bear cubs have by now been born.  Soon we will see REAL snowbirds return … they know when it’s time … and begin building nests, each finding just what it needs for its specific nursery.  Last year’s hatches will build with no instruction, just inborn instincts.  Babies will be born; and stand and run and fly and learn to find food.  We can only wonder in awe.  

Lent begins in two days … a holy time of reflection.  We can only wonder in awe:  “God so loved the world …”  As children of God, we wonder and can hope.  We know the majesty and splendor, our redemption, that will be Easter morning.  

Awesome God, instill in us a deeper appreciation and respect for the Earth and the wonders of nature.  Give us “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow”.  Help us live as we ought to live as your children, instruments of your peace.  Amen  

Verla Olson 

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party