Geepers, a long day indeed. Not all bad, however, in fact, not much bad, just long. I always enjoy driving through the Flint Hills. Especially, in early morning or late evening, both scenarios which played out today. Mile marker 212 on the Kansas Turnpike was my destination and I had to leave early, (from mile marker 42), to be sure and get there when I was expected. It seems like a good idea to, as much as possible, fulfil your boss' expectations so an early departure time it was. The sun joined me at just the right time to offer it's attributes to the subtle attractiveness of the hills. The shading offered by the sun light, really adds a sense of depth to the scene. Very enjoyable indeed. Then, again, with some good timing provided by those in authority over me, my journey home was met with the setting sun. Adding some nice hues to the erratic but substantial cirrus clouds that had moved in late in the day. Their wispy ornamental boarders, separated from the strata of cloud that occupied a quarter or so of the horizon, caught the last of the falling suns rays which lit them with a pink and orange light. A marvellous ending to my day.
At home, staying on a roughly weather related theme, there was an email with a Christmas greeting. To be brief, something in it made me think of one of my favourite verses. (seems like this spell check is of Old English origin). Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together," says the Lord, "though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow, though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool." I love a couple of things about this verse. What about the Creator of the universe, the perfect, all knowing, all powerful King of Kings, coming to earth, seems so very reasonable. Coming to sinful earth, a fallen world. Reason, to me, would seem to dictate another flood or something. Just wipe it all out and start again. Somehow, it's reasonable to God, to take my sin and make it as if it never happened. I think Spock would be very disappointed in God's reasoning ability at this point. And, as white as snow, is such a great picture. Think of an old falling down, weathered old barn that would be described as an eye sore by most. Now, cover it, and the surrounding country side, with a blanket of snow. Now, instead of an eye sore, it's a sight for sore eyes. An aesthetically pleasing scene. Think of forgiveness, which is something I struggle with, that is, forgiving others for wrongs against you. Think of our offering someone forgiveness as throwing snowballs at them. No, not hoping to put an eye out, but covering them with the snow God sent to cover your sins. My forgiveness would be the dirty snow left by the side of the road several days after it has fallen. God's snow is clean and pure and much more effective.
OK, enough for now. I'll see if I can find a good Flint Hills pic to stick on the page for you.
Later,
Bert
