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The weather reports warned that snow was coming. Although we know that more beautifully moderate days of fall lie ahead, here in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains we become accustomed to at least one heavy snowfall in October where branches creak and groan with the accumulation of the moisture laden white stuff.

While I understand that people are inconvenienced by the snow – school openings are delayed if not cancelled, driving becomes hazardous and electric power can be interrupted – I must admit that I was ready for a snowstorm this week. I wanted the quiet that such a storm brings; I wanted what seems like extra time; I wanted to sit in front of the fireplace with a good book; I wanted to make a big pot of soup.

After only three short years of ministry, accompanied by twelve weak followers, Jesus was able to look in His Father’s face and say, “Father, I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.” He walked with confident obedience in His Father’s plan, spending time in prayer, training His apprentices, meeting the needs of hurting people.

Why do I need a snowstorm? What is there about all the appointments and meetings on my calendar that require an “outside influence” for me to reevaluate their importance? Perhaps I need to live more consistently with a Snowstorm Mentality, asking God to direct my schedule – as Jesus did – so that quiet, extra time, books and soup are important portions of my daily life.

Lord, thank you for the reminders that come with snowstorms, reminders to listen quietly for your moment – by – moment guidance and not be harassed by the many demands

Questions: How are you allowing the busyness of the day control your life? Tell us of some creative ways that you spend your quiet time with the Lord.

About the Author Marilyn J. Ehle

It’s easy to be negative about it. That calendar flips over and suddenly humanity swells with good intention. Intention that rarely ever sees February.  But maybe this year, instead of making a top 10 list of vague resolutions – lose weight, pay off debt, quit smoking – you could sharpen your pencil, get real, and ask yourself one question.

What is it that I want?

You want to play guitar, swim off the island of Santorini, Greece, help protect leatherback sea turtles or learn Spanish? Well how much do you want it? Because you are the only one who can take the necessary steps to make it happen. You can decide to do these things on any day of the year, but what better time than at the brink of a fresh, clean slate.

Instead of moping about new year’s resolutions, take some advice from H.L. Hunt,

“Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it. Establish your priorities and go to work.”

What’s on your list of things you want to accomplish, places you want to see, people you want to meet? Are you trying to tackle that list proactively or are you whining at the thought of resolutions?

Image credit: moni