[Dailydevo] Daily Devotion Friday January 20, 2006

[Barry Ludwig]

Daily Devotion Friday January 20, 2006

Snow has been a favorite topic of conversation in these parts recently.
Because there is so strangely little of it this year, such conversation
provokes either joy (for those who see little value in snow) or sorrow (for
those who love to play in snow). How does Scripture use the word and idea of
snow?

 

Matthew  28:1-7

Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week,  Mary
Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the sepulchre.  And behold, there
was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord  descended from heaven and
came and rolled back the stone, and sat upon  it.  His appearance was like
lightning, and his raiment white as snow.  And for fear of him the guards
trembled and became like dead men.  But the angel said to the women, "Do not
be afraid; for I know that you  seek Jesus who was crucified.  He is not
here; for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where  he lay.  Then
go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead,  and
behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.  Lo, I
have told you."

 

Martin Luther often spoke and wrote about the hidden side of God. There are
so very many moments and events in our lives where God seems to be absent.
Some years ago a young woman who had a stroke and was struggling with
consequent difficulties said to me, "Pastor, I cannot see God."  It is hard
to see God in the middle of our pain and hurt.  Isn't it ironic that it was
the absence of Christ in the tomb that gave the women hope and joy and that
was at the heart of the Good News spoken by the angel. "He is not here! He
is risen," was the victorious announcement.

 

We may not be able to see God in our troubles but He is there. This Jesus
who endured death for us, could not be held by its darkness or finality.
This Savior, has His hand on you today. Oh, what about the theme of snow?
The word is used only twice in the New Testament. The resurrection account
above is one of those.  Then angel's garments were as white as snow.  A sign
of holiness; a sign of purity. When we awaken tomorrow morning the ground
will be covered with snow. When you see it, let it remind you of the Good
News that you are covered with the holiness and purity of the risen Lord
Jesus who will be with you.

 

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