It Already Feels Like Winter

At that time the Feast of the Dedication took place at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple in the portico of Solomon. The Jews then gathered around Him, and were saying to Him, “How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe; the works that I do in My Father’s name, these testify of Me. But you do not believe because you are not of My sheep. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

This verse is found in the Gospel of John. There is so much packed into this section of scripture. I want to focus on the "winter" part. I am not a fan of winter. I feel extremely helpless and powerless. I can imagine Jesus felt the same way. He has revealed that He is the Christ, through signs and wonders, but the crowd continues to reject Him. Now He is facing the season that signifies death in all cultures. Jesus is starting to understand the Father's will. I know it isn't even fall yet, but I am already dreading winter. I have survived it before, but it is never easy. However, I will admit that when winter comes, I often have more ability to view the stars, which helps calm my soul. My Father is faithful in every season.