It’s not what we were expecting, a snow storm on the first day of spring. A snow storm was harder to swallow, because here in Indiana we had a day of warm sunshine, followed the next day with snow filled tree limbs. Indiana weather is extremely fickle and constantly changing, those of us who struggle with change, really struggle living in the Hoosier state. Social media is going crazy with “snow in spring” comments and small talk the past several days has consisted of folks in shock of this sudden snow storm. This early spring snow isn’t all that unique, I recall at least one Easter in Indiana with snow on the ground. I remember years ago, two little boys eagerly looking for eggs inside closets, toys, and underneath furniture, simply because it was too cold and snowy to be outside.
Friends, God’s beauty in our lives almost always happens in the {unexpected}. Think about it, the moment you meet that perfect partner, after years of fearing you’d spend life alone. That moment when you see a positive sign on a pregnancy test, not quite ready to be a parent; but when that sweet baby is placed in your arms the joy you feel is indescribable. Sitting beside someone you love dearly as they enter into the gates of Heaven, the pain is intense, but a deeper joy within is immense. When your dream goes unanswered, but God shows you later that His plans for you far outweigh any dream you could have imagined!
The snow storm that hit yesterday, was certainly {unexpected}. In keeping with God’s very nature, he turned the {unexpected} into something truly beautiful and stunning!
Today’s white covered Earth certainly wasn’t expected, the beauty of the dangling snow covered limbs is awe-inspiring. Looking down our long winding driveway, it seems like we’re in a present day Narnia. There’s nothing like the beauty I see today, standing outside on the second day of spring, gazing upon a wintry blanket of white.
I miss the warm 60 degrees we felt here in Indiana just two days ago, but I refuse to “Lose the forest, for the trees!” I choose to be thankful for the beauty each day brings! Spring will come soon enough, then summer, then fall, and winter will roll around again! It’s the beauty of being alive! I recall loved one’s lost in the last year and others who are struggling with illness and hospital walls the only thing they see on this gorgeous day! As I gaze upon God’s beautiful artistry, I say a prayer for those who are fighting for their lives, others who are sitting at the bedside of someone they love, and for those who are finding little hope in the midst of emotional darkness.
Thank you God for the beauty of a wintry white entrance into spring, even though your timing may seem a bit off, we can’t deny the mastery of your artwork. The land you’ve blessed us to live on is absolutely gorgeous,! The children are loving the soft, fluffy, perfect for snow ball making snow! I thank you that even though we don’t understand your plan, that we can trust in your plan with confidence, knowing that nothing happens outside your control! Lord, I am thankful that there’s not a day I journey this Earthly path alone! I thank you for revealing your glory through nature, especially in the most unexpected ways. Thank you for loving me! And extending grace and mercy to me each and everyday!
Psalm 145:5 “On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.”
Psalm 96:11-12 “Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy.”
Psalm 8:3-4 “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?”
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Friends, Is God showing up in expected ways in your life right now? Are you struggling with a pain so raw, so real, that you are finding it difficult to endure daily life? Are you praying for God to heal a sick loved one? God will use each and every pain in your heart for his glory! Are you struggling underneath the hopes of a dream unfulfilled? God is in the business of showing up in the most {unexpected} moments of our lives. Don’t lose hope, just look up and keep trusting God! You’ll find him in the {unexpected}!
Love, Crystal Ridlon
The Flame Within 
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