As I was gazing outside this morning, a song began playing in my mind. Originally a poem written by Christina Rosetti in 1872, Gustav Holst made her work into the Christmas carol we enjoy today.
“In the bleak midwinter,
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,” (1)
This poem and song seem fitting as a wintry grip of snow and ice hold much of our country. I contemplated this bleakness, remembering how gray and brown and quiet the woods were on my last walk. Then I spotted the bright pink colors of a bouquet of peonies my friends gave me. It’s made of paper so it will never fade!
Peonies are among my favorite flowers. Their winter version recently called out to me in the grocery store. But they were pricey. The Lord rewarded my forbearance as my friends showed up with the paper bouquet a few days later!
This time of year, I long for the warmth and color of spring and summer. So, I close my eyes and think about spring and the return of bright green leaves and colorful flowers. Pondering this, I realized what a powerful gift the Lord has bestowed upon us. We can look ahead with hope and look behind and remember the Lord’s faithfulness and protection.
I believe the Lord gave us the ability to look ahead for specific reasons. One is his use of prophecy. If you think about our Bible characters, you’ll see how the Lord poured out multiple prophecies throughout the history of the Israelites. Most of it now has been fulfilled. For example, think of the many predictions about Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection. While we still await the ultimate fulfillment of many prophecies, His faithfulness throughout all generations assures us they will happen.
There were numerous times when the Lord gave instructions or promises for His people to carry into the future. Think about Moses, Joshua, Joseph, and Mary. The Lord was specific about what would come to pass if they followed His guidance. A promise is for the future. Our ability to picture and count on the future He promises is a precious gift.
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'” (2)
When I write, it’s usually to encourage you to focus on the present. Today, pause and study your surroundings, instead of whizzing by on an errand. There are beautiful vistas still available, such as the silhouettes of trees and the cloud formations. Or sit and peruse your photos of spring and summer to cheer your soul, remembering that spring always follows winter.
Just as we look for the renewing cycle of spring leaves and flowers, we also look forward to the coming day when all things will be made new. Rosetti’s poem continues on,
“Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him,
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away,
When He comes to reign:”
The Lord is always creating new life in and around us. We can store it in our memories and anticipate its goodness for the future. Enjoy this gift of delight and perspective He so freely offers us.
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 1:6 ESV
- https://www.lyricsforchristmas.com/christmas-carols/in-the-bleak-midwinter/
- Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
