ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

On these chilly days of autumn, our thoughts often turn to the impending winter months.  In Minnesota, they normally start about this time and stay with us until April.  Half of the year is filled with dark skies, icy temperatures, heavy coats, mittens and ear muffs.  We venture out as little as possible at our age, but still there is something magical about the contrasts of light and dark.  We know it will come to an end. We look forward to warmer days.  We complain about the weather, but still the icicles on the eaves, the snow on the ground, the crisp, fresh air are part of the reason we live here.  The seasons God presents to us are amazing and we know that eventually we’ll enjoy the full beauty of paradise.

In the heart of the forest, what is it you see,
The death of the bush or the loss of each tree,
They die for a while, and rise up again,
Spring pushes each bud, giving life deep within.

Our days undefiled and sins now washed clean,
The pure life of Jesus, will help us convene,
The darkness of winter can leave deep remorse,
We wander away and relinquish our course.

The coldest of days will be warmed through the night,
Our Savior will comfort and holds each one tight,
He won’t let us go, if we trust in His Word,
Our souls are renewed and our steps undeterred.