Wednesday February 1, 2023
Happy tears this morning as I think back to the unexpected gift I received yesterday afternoon. It had been an intense day. I sat in my favorite chair, water in hand, feeling heavy hearted. My head was splitting. The world situation and concerns for my family were weighing on me. I prayed and told God once again that I needed Him. I looked upward and asked Him to take my cares. I knew that He heard my prayer. Over the years, and especially over these last months, I’ve learned that I can trust Him.
My head throbbing, my mind clouded, I stared out the sunroom windows. It was one of those cloudy, gray winter days we often see at this time of year. But as I slowly brought my eyes into focus I saw something that began to lift my spirit.
A swirling flurry of snowflakes was filling my field of vision, thick and bright, obscuring the line of trees on the far side of the yard. Now snowflakes are not ordinarily an unusual sight in the mountains in January. But these snowflakes were different. Varying sizes they filled the yard like confetti from Heaven. Floating, spiraling, swirling…pirouetting, floating up and down and turning all around. Some floated toward me, even occasionally tapping on the glass demanding my attention. This beautiful dance recital continued for at least 30 minutes as I watched. I was enraptured, delighted and smiling widely now.
Today, as I look back and recall that beautiful scene, I finally realize what this unusual beautiful, playful snowflake dance was all about. It was so much more than just a snowsquall! To me, it was a love-gift sent from my Father in Heaven. I had some questions. And so God and I had a little conversation…
Dear God, thank you for sharing your playful side…
“Father, why did You make snowflakes that dance? You didn’t have to do it that way. Why did You create leaves that shimmer, blue skies with puffy white clouds and squirrels who run races around tree trunks? Why are kittens so frolicky and fun, why do puppies chase their tails and why did you make monkeys so mischievous? You made long legged fawns who kick their heels as they run across the field, long necked spotted giraffes and sunflowers that nod their heads in the summer breeze. Could it be for our enjoyment? Does it make You smile when Your children enjoy your Creation?
You and I have been navigating our way through a long season of grief together, Lord. You have held my hand and walked with me and wiped my tears. And along the way You have daily sent me reminders that You are still here with me and that You care. Butterflies in summer. Brilliant trees in autumn. And now dancing snowflakes in winter.
So much beauty and joy.
So much love.
We honor God when we take joy in His Creation!
Some days are still dark and difficult. But now on the cloudy days I will remember these winter butterflies and these moments of joy, and I will hear Your tender voice saying it’s OK to enjoy life again. You have given us the gift of a beautiful life to enjoy. I honor you when I receive your gift with gratitude and joy!
Thank You for the playful gifts You have given us, Father. Thank You for the joy of this one life. And thank you especially for the dancing snowflakes yesterday. I pray that my life will make You smile today.
You ARE a good, good Father
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This was really beautiful. Once again moisture on my face. We focus so much on the things going on in this world and lose sight of the wonderful things God gives us that are too numerous to count. He is indeed a good, good Father.