ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Snow has become the norm in our area. Now we’re experiencing below zero temperatures. This part of winter is one that I don’t really prefer but living in the Midwest all my life, I’ve learned to adapt. One of the ways is to stay inside for the next few months. As we get older, we avoid the outdoors because we could easily slip and fall. We hibernate like the bears. We have someone do our shopping for us. We pick up germs easily. Most of mine have died of old age. We watch church services online. Breaking a hip, knee or other body parts isn’t an option. We become hermits. We watch a lot of old television shows. We eat more. Since we aren’t moving much, we add extra pounds to our girth. Even with all those obstacles, we can look out the window and see the beauty of a white landscape – the skeletal fingers of ice clinging to the edge of our homes – the empty trees which resemble silhouettes against an early morning sky. Knowing that we are safe is a bonus. God is always with us. He takes care of all our needs. He blesses us with all the seasons. He brings light into darkness.

Through the darkness and the shadows, God is with me all the way,

Even when the road is cluttered, with the cares of every day,

When I’m lonely or downhearted, fears surround on every side,

When the path is filled with danger, He will always be my guide.

The world attacks and arrows pierce, death will overtake and win

Still the breath of life will conquer, Jesus washed away my sin,

Here on earth there will be trouble, but in heaven no more fear,

Still He watches and protects me, grace He adds to every year.

Every day is such a blessing, when we walk with God’s own Son,

He brought peace to all the living, and in death our souls are won,

Thank you, Jesus for your passion, for your grace and love so true,

The gates of heaven now open, when we just believe in You.