Let It Snow

Job 37:5-7, "God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth,' and to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour.' So that all men he has made may know his work, he stops every man from his labor." 

I sold my snow shovel and my snow blower a month ago. It was like saying good-bye to two life-long friends. We met seasonally but our relationship was one of love and appreciation. But like my lawn mower, my weed-wacker, and my sidewalk edger, they were friends I needed to let go of to move to Oregon. 

I'm moving to Tualatin, Oregon where it never snows. News update:  It snowed yesterday. But...I didn't have to shovel it. It came in appearance only and didn't stay around. 

I drove down through Sherwood to Newberg yesterday and while I don't like shoveling snow, it sure was a pretty sight to see the mountains glazed with the white covering. I found myself being thankful for God's wonderful blessings in my life - an Indiana farm boy winding his way in the hills of the Pacific Northwest, a new church family to love and minister to, a reconnect with a young man from Michigan now living in Newberg, and some new found mentors at George Fox University and Multnomah Bible College and Seminary. Quite honestly, I couldn't have imagined or expected this a year ago. 

I think Job, in the midst of his life struggle, was still cognizant of God's hand in his life through the common graces of snow and rain. As Job said, it is much more than elements; it is the voice of God and a visible reminder of his powerful work. He uses it, i.e. snow storms, typhoons, tropical storms, hurricanes, wind storms, etc...to remind us of his thunderous voice and to give us pause, compelling us at times through stopping or interfering with our daily routine, to remind us of his presence. It's often too bad that we consider Him a seasonal acquaintance as well. For too many "Christians" He appeared but thankfully didn't stay around. Something to ponder, especially at this time of year.