winter rains & first snow

Lisa and I were re-installed as the lead pastors of Rothesay Vineyard. It was a good day. Larry and Karen Levy from the Halifax Vineyard were visiting, and Larry spoke and addressed this important time of transition in the life of our church. He spoke about the “winter rains”, and how they can soften and prepare the earth for a receptive spring. He didn’t feel it was a time for harvest for our church, but rather a time of preparation, a time for softening our hearts again, a time to receive new infusions of life, and to make connections that would eventually lead to a fruitful time of harvest. I loved what Larry had to say, and felt the whole congregation was very encouraged by his gracious words.

I thought it was interesting when I got up this morning that it was snowing. Our first snowfall! Winter rains. This photo was taken today out my front door, looking across the Kennebacasis River to the snow-covered fields on the other side. I do remember an old farmer telling me one time that snow was a poor man’s fertilizer, and that winter rains were so beneficial to the quality of the soil. I take it as a good sign that the promise of quality, life, and fruitfulness will come to pass.