reprieve.

January 20, 2014January 20, 2014 by Kathleen Moulton

Every winter in Upstate NY, we experience the “January Thaw”. I’m sure it’s not exclusive to where I live, but nevertheless, we look forward to it. The temperature rises to the mid to high 40’s and the snow and ice melts. It’s as if winter pauses briefly for a week before the next blast of cold and snow.

If there is a break in winter’s rhythm, there is a break for you, too.

Sometimes, we can be so overwhelmed with our present circumstances that we may not be aware of the joy that is often mingled with our sorrow.

Have you ever been crying and then found yourself laughing at something? Those are moments that come upon us when we weren’t expecting it.

We aren’t always expecting a reprieve – relief that lasts longer than a moment. It’s a break from the constant pressure of whatever burdens you.

I think we should look for it. Just like the January Thaw.

God isn’t going to forget you.

~~~

Photo credit: Βethan / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND

january thaw.

January 16, 2013January 13, 2013 by Kathleen Moulton

January’s thaw loosens winter’s icy grip and brings reprieve.

The birds find berries once hidden in drifts of snow and the deer find fresh bark.

And water! Cool, clean, and fresh.

If God provides for these, how much more for you?

Weighted down with heavy ice and snow, branches threaten to snap, exposing its tender green to the cruel cold.

But now, they spring up toward the sky once again.

Whatever your winter is – God will bring hope and rest in the midst of it.

treasures.

December 5, 2012December 5, 2012 by Kathleen Moulton ♥ 2 Comments

Memories ebb and flow, washing upon the shore of our mind. Sometimes the tide comes in uninvited, carrying debris with it. If we allow the debris to lodge in our minds, we can become laden down with self-pity, discouragement, and depression.

The tide will go out. And with it, the debris.

But look! There are some surprising treasures that the tide brought with it. If you look carefully, you will find them.

Pain does not have to drown us. God knows we do not have the strength to tread water for long. He brings reprieve in the form of little joys that will make us smile in the midst of even deep sorrow.

The first clear notes of a cheerful robin, chasing away the bitter winds of winter.

The surprise visit of a summer breeze, bringing relief on a hot summer day.

The palette of warm, autumn colors painted on a dreary, gray canvas.

The gentle falling snowflakes quieting a troubled heart.

All is well.

~~~

Photo courtesy: wildxplorer / Foter / CC BY