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A guest post by my husband, Ed Nicholson
We had an absolutely arctic day here in January. The temperatures got down below zero and ice began to form on the insides of our old windows. Elizabeth is not one to miss a photo-op.
These crystals are beautiful to look at, but I got to thinking about how hard it can sometimes be to keep ourselves unspotted from the world. The worries of this life can, like an oppressive chill, press in on us and threaten to find a way in. Some days it’s hard to let the light shine. It can feel like the darkness is winning. We fear our hearts are growing cold.
Still, greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world. Martin Luther’s hymn, A Mighty Fortress is Our God is the hymn I thought of when seeing these pictures. God is able to protect what we have entrusted to Him. And if we crack under the weight of temptation, He is able to wash us clean when we confess and repent. He is purifying for Himself a bride without spot or wrinkle.
Help me, Lord, to remember to find shelter – and warmth – under the shadow of your wings. You are never failing! Amen.
Ed Nicholson – January, 2014
Scripture references:
keep oneself unspotted… James
worries of this life … Gospel of Mark
love of many will grow cold … Gospel of Matthew
greater is He that is in us … I John
God can protect our hearts… II Timothy
God forgives our sins when we confess… 1 John
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