It’s Coming, Part 1

I’m looking out my window at snow-covered ground, but my weather app promises a heatwave by this afternoon—47 degrees! I was thrilled to spot my first robin in our backyard, even though he wasn’t hopping on green grass but on ice-covered wetlands. And the ducks are back! But rather than swimming, they were waddling atop frozen water. Regardless of the view or the chill I feel, there is one thing I’m sure of: Spring is coming!

What is it that fuels our anticipation of a new season? I think it’s more than a longing for beautiful greenery and colorful flowers. I suspect we are simply so “over” winter’s challenges—the snow removal, the restrictions, the heating bills, the layers of clothing, the threat of slipping. Putting that all behind us elates our hearts with happy thoughts—green buds, getting out and about, fresh air and open windows, lightweight jackets, walks in the sunshine.

This is not different from my anticipation of the next life, when I will shed everything that weighs me down. I will walk in freedom, without restraints. I will observe only life and health. Everywhere I look, I will discover unseen wonders. I will never be concerned with comfort control, hidden dangers, or inconvenient disruptions. This is my inheritance for all eternity.

What do you anticipate? We’ll ponder more next week.

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

Anticipation

It’s coming! In the wake of the Blizzard of 2026, our anticipation is high. In three weeks and one day, we will officially emerge from winter’s hibernation and welcome spring, relishing the remarkable changes it brings—warmth, buds, and the promise of life. God’s rhythms always bring blessing.

There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens.
Ecclesiastes 3:1

God designed the cadence of the seasons and never wavers from the perfect rhythm He created. Whether it is a season of nature or a season of suffering, His plans, wisdom, and grace await us. His vision always holds promise and blessing.

  • We see snow on branches; He sees sap running beneath the bark.
  • We see ice on the walkways; He sees flowers preparing to break through.
  • We see freezing temperatures; He sees warmth waiting to kiss the earth.
  • We see storm-gray skies; He sees bright days filled with sunshine.

How abundant are the good things
that You have stored up for those who fear You.
Psalm 31:19

February is a great month to anticipate God’s goodness!

Image by Frauke Riether from Pixabay

Happy New… Anticipation!

I am anticipating good things in 2025. I have no inside knowledge or prophetic insight. I am not relying on America’s political change or expecting world peace. I am not an irrepressible romantic or stubborn optimist. My expectation is solely based on the goodness of God.

I expect Him to be good and show me mercy.

I look forward to God’s faithfulness arriving new every morning.

I am eager for fresh discoveries of His nature and manifestations of His love.  

I believe He controls times and seasons, leaders and nations, relieving me of fear.

I hope in surprising revelations of His character, His care, and His love.

I anticipate God’s goodness will shine bright in 2025.

I remain confident of this:
    I will see the goodness of the Lord
    in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13

Image by dana279 from Pixabay