Just a few feet away, outside my window on the world, harsh cold grips the landscape in merciless hands. Snow outlines yards and rooftops, bringing white shapes out of the darkness. No longer do I see the neighborhood cats wandering down the street. Hopefully, they all have homes and warm cushions on which to curl up. And the dogs who live near-by? This morning I’m not hearing any of them barking. Are they snoozing at home in comfortable beds? I can only hope. When extreme weather hits, so does the mother hen instinct and I want to check on everybody and everything, making sure that all are tucked in and safe.
A long time ago, I had a friend whose mission in life was to care for homeless cats. She loved dogs too but her chief interest was cats. She would go out in the coldest weather to feed furry strays who resided in alleys and behind stores. She did her best to provide beds and shelter and she had the satisfaction of knowing that she made a difference.
In my town, as well as most other towns, there are homeless people who have nowhere to go to escape the frigid conditions. I’m thankful for the Salvation Army and others whose mission is to provide food and shelter for those who have none. May we never forget that having basic comforts is a blessing indeed and not everyone is warm and fed. I thank the Lord for those who care for others.
I remember the Lord’s words to Peter: Feed my sheep. I’m sure He was talking about spiritual food but I also believe that goes hand in hand with taking care of those who are needy physically. Jesus loved everyone: children, old people, those who were sick, those who were well, those who had no money, and those who were rich. None was excluded and all were needy in one way or another. He is the example for Christians everywhere. It is easy to say that we will pray for someone or that we love them. It is more believable when we show that love by actions. Let’s not let our own concerns and limitations get in the way of compassion for others.
When I looked at the thermometer earlier, it register -1. Today, the weatherman says the mercury will climb above freezing. All I can say is, I’ll believe it when I see it! But, there is hope at the end of this frigid tunnel; warmer days will be here before too long.
Although yesterday was extremely cold, the sun shone and the blue sky arched over a snowy, beautiful world. Somewhere, beneath the frozen ground, there are seeds which will one day begin to stir with life and push their way upward. Some day, spring will come, but right at this moment, it is most definitely winter!
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