Winter’s Message

“Winter: a lingering season, a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour.”

– John Boswell

This winter has lingered a long time. Everywhere I go – the bank, shopping, grocery, standing in line – everyone wants this season to be over. But can we, as the poem encourages us, make this season a time to gather golden moments?

As I look out my window upon the blanket of snow, I remember the verse, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isaiah 1:18), celebrating the beautiful magnificence of God’s landscape. “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7) – not forgetting those evenings that are more frequent because of the harsh winter, forcing us to stay in more; the meals together, spiritual conversations, and laughter around the fire.

It seems there are a few more idle hours because it’s too cold to go and do and rush around. Those hours can become golden moments. This poem reminds me to enjoy winters sweet sentiments: reading that spiritual book that’s been on your list, meditating on God’s Word, praying longer and remembering those in need. “She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all her household is clothed with scarlet” (Proverbs 31:7) – using the idle moments wisely, trusting in her Savior.

Yes, winter has lingered longer, but the grass is peaking through, and winter will pass. If we spend this season lingering longer and gathering golden moments, our hearts should become more prepared for the Spring that awaits us. “And the LORD shall guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and make fat your bones; and you shall be like a well-watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” (Isaiah 58:11)

Pam Cavanaugh