The blizzard is raging outside my window. The American flag on the pole
across the street is standing straight out…nearly being torn from the
pole. A 10-foot branch of a tree down at the corner is broken, but still
clinging to the tree. As daylight is fading, I will not be able to see if
it falls until tomorrow morning. And won't it be interesting to see just
how deep the snow in the driveway is by morning? A single car passed
several minutes ago. Traffic has mostly stopped in our neighborhood. For a
little while, the normally busy pace of human activity will slow
down…perhaps nearly stop.
This storm was so widely predicted that I half expected it to not happen.
And I would be quite disappointed if it had not come. Certainly, I respect
the danger the blizzard poses. Hazardous travel conditions, power
failures, damage to trees and property. And it's not that I am so eager to
clear the snow off the driveway. I'll be at least a little resentful of
the snow by the time I finish moving it out of the way tomorrow.
But a snow day is a gift. I've always thought so, even as a kid. A break
from the busy schedule of activity that usually occupies us. A free day to
put school or work aside. A time to spend with loved ones. An opportunity
to do some project that you just haven't had time for otherwise. A time
for yourself. And maybe the best part of the gift…no feelings of guilt. It
isn't like playing hooky…no one can get to work or school. It is a
mandatory free time. Is it possibly even a holy time? A time for rest and
renewal? Sabbath?
Thank you, God, for a snow day. Do we have to wait for another "blizzard
of the century" for the next one?
Ron Vanatta
Coming at Salem: This Sunday, Feb 6: Scout recognition, Installation of
council members, Souper Bowl of Caring, and Reception of new members (at
the 10:30 service)
First Communion Class for third graders and their parents will meet the
next three Sundays, Feb 6, 13, & 20, at 9:15 in fellowship hall.
Blood Drive at Salem Saturday, Feb 12, from 8:00 to noon, and special
offering for Lutheran Campus Ministry received at worship services Feb 12
and 13. A gift of life in honor of those who lost their lives in the
campus shooting.
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