Thank You, God. Thank You for Your love, Your protection, Your consistency. You embody so many attributes. The list is very long.

As I walk in the brisk late afternoon it feels chilly on my face and hands. Then it just turns cold, and maybe even a bit uninviting. But then, as I see the wind blow what You have created – the trees that still have leaves on them, and even the bare trees that still sway in the chilly breeze of approaching winter, they seem to endure in spite of this feeling of briskness.

As I continue to walk, I turn the corner and am met by the sun. It’s warm, it’s bright, it’s inviting. It is comforting.

Right now, there are events in my life that are uninviting. Out of the blue, a coldness and a briskness has settled itself into my life. Something that wasn’t expected or planned for; but it’s here. So, I look to You, my Father, my Protector, Jesus my Savior, Holy Spirit my Counselor. My Comforter.

I prayed and asked You for what I needed. Friends, neighbors and family joined in lifting me up in prayer. All our prayers went to You, my Lord, like the wind blowing. Silent, yet powerful. And of course, You heard each one. You answered each one.

What I’m reflecting upon is that even when it’s cold, dark, bitter and there is the uninviting unknown, You are there. Faced with situations that interrupt life without any notice, You are there. Like the warmth of the sun on cold winter day, You are there.

In my walk, I really shouldn’t be surprised when sometimes my faith is shaken by the unknown and unprepared for circumstances. Yet, You are a constant, Lord. You are never changing. You are always there. You always will be.

I want to say it with bigger words and more expression, so that when it is read, it jumps off the page. I can’t always find those words, but I know they are there and I will seek You in them. When faced with the calmness and certainty of today or the chaos and uncertainty of tomorrow I will say – THANK YOU. In all circumstances and occasions, You are both inviting and comforting no matter what else is going on, and I put my trust in You.

“For His faithful love to us is great; the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. Hallelujah!” (Psalms 117:2 HCSB).

God bless you all,

Toni Ceglia