WHITER THAN SNOW!

The snow we received on Monday reminded me of a verse in Scripture. You might recall that Psalm 51 is believed to be King David's confession of his sin with Bathsheba. On the one hand, we see David confessing that he is a sinner and that God is justified in His judgment upon his life. On the other hand, we see David throwing himself upon God's mercy, all the while knowing that God can and will forgive him and cleanse him of his sin. After David confesses his sin, he cries out to God, "wash me, and I will be whiter than snow".

As I looked at the snow that had fallen, it was so beautiful, so fresh, so clean, so white. The dry brown ugly grass had been covered by the fresh blanket of snow and the lawn took on a new appearance. In the same way, we take on a new appearance, even more than that, a new life when God forgives and cleanses us of our sin. In fact, he blots out that sin, never to be remembered or held against us. I don't know about you, but that's good news!

But a word of warning, even though we are "washed, whiter than snow", it doesn't take long for us to get complacent and apathetic. Take a look around. The snow is now dirty and grimy looking. It's been driven on and pushed to the side and scooped away. If we're not careful, we who are cleaned up can pretty soon fall back into our old ways and also look like dirty tromped on snow.

Like David, it would behoove us to pray that God would create in us a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within us. And as we pray, let us also commit ourselves to remaining pure and clean before God. Then, just like the snow that is in the picture above, we will be a beautiful representaton of God's cleansing work in our lives.

AND THE SEASON IS..........???

Just when we thought Spring had arrived, old man Winter decided to show his ugly face. So we found ourselves in the midst of a blizzard today with howling winds and blowing snow. I have no idea how much snow we received because it blew all over the place but it was enough to slow everyone down, in fact many businesses were closed. (ML was happy). But in the big picture, it was much needed moisture (we've been praying, remember?) And as the pictures show, it really is quite beautiful.

When I see snow I am often reminded of the verse in Psalm 51:7 that says, "...wash me, and I will be whiter than snow". You having a bad day? Think you've messed up so much you can never be forgiven? Beyond hope? Then read all of Psalm 51. If King David's sins were forgiven and he was washed whiter than snow, be assured that you too can be restored and renewed and purified. That's good news - even in the midst of a blizzard.

Some birds huddled under the bird feeder - Lunchtime!

This is good imagery. Has your life gone adrift (a drift)? Then why not step into the Lord's house and be drawn back to Him?

The road less traveled.

RICK'S RAMBLINGS

Well, believe it or not, our littlest turned 17 this past Wednesday. Happy Birthday Kyle - we love you!

As I write this, the snow is coming down like crazy. Here we go again. This is April isn't it????

Did you know today is Friday the 13th? Anyone nervous??

Once again, I am reminded of how blessed we are in our family. We have 3 great boys and 2 wonderful daughter-in-laws. Life is good!

By the way, I may have mentioned that I am going to be a grandpa - but get this - IT'S A BOY!!

Imagine that. Eric just (Eric Just, get it?) called and said they found out that a boy is on the way. Another generation of Justs - look out!

Received word that I am going to be the assistant spiritual director for the Walk to Emmaus this fall. I hope some of you will prayerfully consider going. I'll be in touch or give me a call if interested.

Gotta run - tax day is biting on our heels. Ouch, ouch,ouch...............................