A blast of winter white hit the Heartland once again this past weekend, and once again the ole snow shovel got a work-out as Don cleared our drive and walk-ways. He’d probably split hairs and say that he was the one who got the work-out, though. At least that’s what his back told him the next day :)
I tried to help, honestly I did. Since Don’s putting in another very demanding semester, I let him sleep in on Saturday while I got out and started the process, using my trusty broom to clear off the front and back steps as well as a path next to our cars.
Since I was still recovering from a bad flare-up of inflammatory arthritis in my shoulder, I knew I had no business sweeping snow, let alone shoveling it. I couldn’t resist the urge, however, to get out in it, even if it was just for a little while. And I did want to ease Don’s load if I could.
But I couldn’t. The sweeping motion proved to be too painful. I had to wake Don and put him to work, preparing the way for our cars — and our feet — to travel unhindered by January’s last gift to us. That extra effort, that preparation for our comings and goings, made all the difference over the next few days.
When I think back to the life of Jesus, there was one who prepared the way for Him, too. Before He began His public ministry, John the Baptist came preaching, telling the people that they needed to “‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.'” (Matthew 3:2)
Scripture tells us that people from the whole region came to listen to John – and it made a very big difference. Many confessed their sins and were baptized. Many were then ready to embrace Jesus when He began His ministry.
We may have a ministry or task awaiting us today, but some preparation may need to be done first if we hope to proceed unhindered. Someone may need to clear the way. Who’s that someone in your situation?
Me? I’m in the midst of preparations for our daughter’s wedding. I’m doing all I can to help clear the way for a wonderful wedding day celebration. And I have a feeling the extra effort will make all the difference…
“…be prepared in season and out of season…” 2 Timothy 4:2
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Preparation. I’m in the middle of it, too, for Write2Ignite!
Oh, how it makes the event much more pleasurable.
Blessings,
Jean
p.s. you & Don had better take turns rubbing ointment on those sore muscles!
a friend and i have been talking about john the baptist recently- about the amazing humility he had never to claim to be anything he more than he was. and to completely step aside and embrace Christ’s ministry.
i’m still in awe of the man. i reckon i will be forever.
Look at that snow! We usually get snow, but not this year. Great post!
Something to think about… those who go ahead of us to prepare the way for others to receive our ministry. I might be paving the way for someone else.
Great pondering, Cheryl. Wish I could be of more help to you in this time of busyness.
peace~elaine
Snow is fun! I live in Denver, so I see lots of it.
Thanks for responding to my post on Chip’s blog! ;)
Appreciate your comment.
hello all
I figured it would be a good idea to introduce myself to everyone!
Can’t wait to get to know you all better!
-Marshall
Thanks again!