I’ll be honest. Winter is my least favorite season, but I was recently reminded that the Lord created every season for specific purposes; spring for new life, summer for growth, autumn for harvest, and winter for rest. Each one is a gift from our Father. This year I aim to embrace each season for what it is rather than wish it would be something it is not. I realize that complaining about winter each and every year is a weight on my spirit. I’ve lived too many years viewing it as the eminent threat, and this year I want joy during this season.
and whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Colossians 3:17
What joy is there in winter?
Maybe it isn’t like this for everyone, but January through March is pretty slow for our family. Activities are few, the garden is latent, and the cold keeps us at home most days. This grants us an opportunity to give attention to tasks and hobbies that may be neglected during the busier times of the year.
Baking. I’ve always enjoyed making homemade breads, cakes, and cookies, so this year I desire to refine my baking skills. I plan to put my sourdough starter to good use and experiment with some new recipes. There’s nothing like filling the kitchen with warm, yummy smells on a bleak winter’s day.
Crocheting. I learned to crochet four or five years ago and instantly enjoyed it. I have since neglected my yarn and hooks, but this season I hope to pick them back up. It is such a relaxing craft and requires very little concentration once you get going. Bonus…you can work on projects while watching a movie!
Reading. Here’s what my perfect winter day looks like…cuddled in blankets on the couch, sipping a cup of hot tea, reading a good book, and snow falling outside the window. Reality is…that doesn’t happen often, but I can dream! Here are a few books on my list; Letters to the Church by Francis Chan, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, Hand Made by Melissa K. Norris, and Mansfield Park by Jane Austen.
Garden Planning. Winter provides downtime for planning our garden in time for spring. By the time autumn comes around I am typically growing weary of tending the garden, so a time of rest is much needed. Rest for both the soil and the gardener! Planning my garden brings me a lot of joy and expectancy for the coming planting and harvest times.
I hope my list inspired you to embrace this dormant, sleepy, and cozy time of year. The Lord calls each of us to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, and with a thankful heart. May we view the tasks of this winter with intentionality and seek to bring glory to His name through them. I encourage you to snuggle your babies a little extra, read a good book, buy some seeds, play a new game, or learn a new craft. It will be worth your while. I pray blessings over you and yours this winter.