The Calm

Last I heard we are expecting a snow storm in Iowa tomorrow. This morning it is a beautiful, calm winter day. We had some thawing over the last few days so the sidewalks and driveways are clear of snow and just the mounds where snow was piled up remain. The birds are singing, almost like a spring morning and the branches aren't moving. It is a lovely quiet morning.

It is February so we are a step closer to spring. It is funny how much difference a day can make as we look toward the future. The weather changes so quickly, just as it did for the disciples when Jesus questioned them about their faith.

"Jesus got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm." (Mark 4:39 NIV).

When it is calm you can hear the quiet and distant noises. The train as it rumbles on the tracks a couple of miles away. The traffic on the highway that you can't see. The banging of feeders on a farm across the acres of farm ground. The cawing of birds as they seek prey from the barren land.

The calm is the perfect time to quiet your mind into meditation and prayer. Take this one moment and experience it through awareness of the present, not worrying about tomorrow or fretting about things of the past. Consider what really matters to you and choose to do things that complement it.

Relish the presence of God and allow yourself to delight in Him. Sharing your thoughts with Him and listening in the calm for the answers He shares with you. Rest in His open arms.

"Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs" (Psalm 100:2 NIV).