Today autumn turned to winter. The scientists said so. This year, the weather agreed.

A winter storm blows across a large area of southern Canada and into the USA. For me, it felt good to have snow on the ground, even if we didn’t get hit hard by this storm system.

Fresh snow, when it covers the ground, creates an almost magical effect. It sparkles. Before human contact the clean surface builds a treasure for the eye.

First day of winter 2012 at our house

First day of winter 2012 at our house

What came to mind as I gazed out onto this wonderland?

Wash yourselves! Become clean!
Get your evil deeds out of my sight.
Stop doing evil.
Learn to do good.
Seek justice.
Arrest oppressors.
Defend orphans.
Plead the case of widows.
Come on now, let’s discuss this! says the Lord.
Though your sins are bright red,
they will become as white as snow.
Though they are dark red,
they will become as white as wool.
If you are willing and obedient,
you will eat the best from the land.
But if you refuse and rebel,
you will be destroyed by swords.
The Lord has spoken.    (Isaiah 1:16-20 God’s Word)