Gentle snow cascading down from the heavens – sparkling like shards of broken glass in the meadow – a simple cabin, lacking light from within, is surrounded by it from the glistening white outside.  What a beautiful sight.  What a picture of serenity and peace.

In the middle of nowhere – without transportation other than a pair of snow shoes or cross country skis – eager for something to eat besides TV dinners from the freezer – anxious for some communication other than the occasional sound of a distant snowmobile.  Winter is beautiful, but it’s tough – especially on the elderly; those who are alone; those without families; those who may be stranded in their own surroundings.

At times like that, it seems like winter will never end. What is commonly known as “cabin fever” has begun to set in. This term was first coined in the early 1900’s to indicate a feeling of being closed in for a long period of time. I suppose people didn’t get out much in those days, because transportation didn’t allow it as it does today. But it still happens today.  When we get snowed in and our cars won’t start – when the road to civilization hasn’t been plowed – when there is no help available.

It’s hard to imagine that there are so many lonely people out there, but there are. Even when surrounded by hoards of other folks, we can feel a sense of aloneness.  When we feel this way; when our hearts feel that we’re completely alone; when we think that no one cares about us or that we don’t matter in this world; it’s good to know that our God is with us all the time.

Psalm 62:1-2 tells us this. “For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.”

When you live in a cold climate, you kind of expect to be cooped up for a while in winter, but that doesn’t make it any easier. Up here in Minnesota we learn to live with it, because the beauty of the season is so stunning, however after a long six months of it, we long for green grass and budding trees.  We can’t wait to see the new growth springing up from the ground, reminding us of God’s promise of new life.  Each season in my state carries special wonder.  We are truly blessed to enjoy the best that God has to offer when it comes to change.  Patience is hard, but worth the waiting.

Dear Lord, when I feel hemmed in from all sides; if I feel alone even if surrounded by others; when the cares of the world overcome me; I can be confident that I am never alone. You are with me always. May this confidence grow each day in my heart and in the hearts of those who believe in you.  Amen!