A Winter Wonderland

By Brenda Van Lier

My husband and I are “Retired” and live in rural Ontario. This can have it's drawbacks as one needs to drive to get anywhere. But on days like today--in the midst of a snow storm, I find it wonderful.

Hearing of the pending storm on Monday we made sure we shopped and so have lots of provisions on hand. We have a fireplace and only need add another log to enjoy the warmth it sends out. I love to cook on days like this and make huge pots of home-made chicken soup.

At the moment my husband is out plowing the driveway with the plow on his garden tractor--he really enjoys this activity so it is not a hardship. I know he will also enjoy a nice bowl of hot chicken soup when he comes in.

One of my greatest joys is getting up in the morning and looking out at what animal tracks may be seen in the fresh snow. We have our share of mice, rabbits, deer, wolves etc. It is amazing to see how close to the house these animals have come while we have been sleeping. It is with joy that we share this property with God's wildlife.

Our lives have not always been so idyllic. We have raised 4 children and had our share of worries together with financial woes. But we have come through all that--our children are grown and married, happily living their own lives. We have a wonderful granddaughter we cherish. God has been good to us. We are now enjoying a period of peace and calm in our lives. I can truly say I am content.

Whether in a time of storm or time of calm, I have come to learn that God Always walks with us. He answers our Prayers--in His Way and in His Time--- He does give us the desires of our hearts as we Love Him.

I could look around our circumstances today & see through other eyes: health concerns; a raft of unfinished jobs around the house; not quite nenough money to buy anything new. But I choose Not to see with those eyes. I choose to see all that we Have, all that brings such Joy. I have a Thankful heart today as I dwell on all God has done for us.

Philippians 4; v.11 tells us: ... I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.

I have a Thankful heart today as I dwell on all God has done for us.

Today… I have learned to put my trust in God.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Thank you Brenda... what a blessing you are.

~ Pastor Murray Lincoln ~