Thursday, December 14, 2017

Hidden Places



Last Friday our small portion of the world lay blanketed by a soft covering of snow. Against the backdrop of a cloudless blue sky the sun rose and touched the earth with light and warmth. Snow loosened it’s grip on telephone wires and tree branches and gently fell to the ground. Water ran from the eaves in a steady stream. By late afternoon, all traces of our magical snow storm had disappeared. Or so I thought.
On my walk that morning I noticed a small remnant of white tucked away in the shade of our neighbor’s Mountain Laurel tree. It had somehow escaped the warming rays of the sun. 
In my mind I saw a picture of my heart – the deepest part of me. I am, as the Lord understands, prone to sin. That’s why He provided a perfect way to cleanse my heart – completely and thoroughly, over and over again.
However, there are hidden places I may try to hide from Him, whether from shame or perhaps pride I’m not sure, but as long as I keep them hidden away they remain.
If you look closely, you’ll see sunlight peeking through the shadows. I don’t think that snow will remain for long.
Nothing is truly hidden from Him. He longs to bring light and life to the dark, dead places. We only have to let Him.
“For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all.” Luke 8:17
“Oh Lord, You have examined my heart and know everything about me.” Psalm 139:1
“Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” Psalm 51: 1,2
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10
Blessings,
Linda