A few days ago I stood with my back to a fierce wind, watching the snow swirl past me in unpredictable patterns. It was a rare glimpse into the ways of the wind.
Windswept winter clouds
Usually we cannot see the wind. We have a vague idea where it blows in from, but never know exactly. We have a general idea where it hurries off to, but never can be certain.
The wind has been plucking these cattails apart.
Even though we cannot see the wind itself, we can see what it has been doing—to the clouds, the plants, the snow, and the cattails.
The wind uses grasses to carve the snow
Just as we find tracks of wild animals, we find footprints of the busy wind. And, just as we discover the footprints of the busy wind, we find evidence of the Holy Spirit.
The wind’s tracks and animal tracks
As Jesus said, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)
Coyotes or wolves have walked through the wind’s snow sculpture
The wind’s tracks and trails help us understand how the Holy Spirit works: often mysteriously. To those who know God’s name and therefore put their trust in him, that is a comfort, for God has not forsaken those who seek him. (Psalm 9:10)
This week I hope you will find time to look at the world God made. God may have joy waiting there for you, or comfort, or awe. Feel free tell us about your outside time in the comments and include a link if you wish.
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