This week is the first week I’ve had to consistently wear a jacket. I remember growing up, I was always a little sad on Halloween when I had to wear my winter coat because it always covered up my cute costume. I’m not sure why the temperature started dropping later this year than I remember, but I know I’ve been trying to stay bundled up the past few days. My new office is rather chilly as is my bedroom, so it seems like I’m always cold. The other night, my dad and I went out to dinner and I was shivering. He had me put my hands in his to warm them up (after several exclamations of shock due to the frigid feel of my hands). No amount of layers seems to be able to keep me warm. Nothing I do gets my body temperature to stay at a comfortable place.
But, when I’m in the kitchen in the morning and I feel a rush of warmth as I eat breakfast at the table, sun shining in through the bare window. And I exhale. On my way to work, my body is warmed to the core as I pass through patches of dancing sunlight and I breathe in deeply.
I’m taken back to days of freezing temperatures, unrelenting wind, curled up under several blankets shivering in a hut in South Africa. Days where I stood outside in the sun, the only source of warmth, lifting my face to the sky saying words of praise for the momentary relief from the cold. I’m taken to days where I felt in my element, engaging with people I should have nothing in common with, speaking another language. I’m taken to days looking over the African terrain, watching herds of animals gather together for warmth. I’m taken to days where women wear blankets walking to the market and heat their houses with firewood stoves.
And I smile.
I’m reminded of God’s faithfulness and goodness when the sun’s warmth washes over my frigid body. I’m reminded of my calling, my place, my purpose when I feel it’s glow on my skin. In a season of trying to warm myself up alone, relying on clothes, blankets, and fires, I’m reminded only He can truly change me. Only He can truly provide what I need. Only He can bring that provision right when my shivers become too much for me.
What’s something that reminds you of your element?
How does God meet you when you need Him?
