by Norma Budden

Created on: October 02, 2010   Last Updated: December 09, 2011

A Christmas Blizzard

The wind swept across the tundra as the couple walked side by side through the tiny town. Trying their best not to give in to the bitter cold, they continued on toward their destination - the towns only church.

“We must be crazy,” shouted the woman. “The weather’s not fit for even a dog to be outside.” She continued to plug along, trying her best to place one foot in front of the other, despite the wind trying to push her backwards.

“It won’t be much longer; we’ll soon be at the church,” her husband answered as he shouted to be heard above the howling wind. “I’m sure it will be worth it all when we arrive.”

With dogged determination, the couple continued on in silence, using every ounce of energy to combat the elements; living north of 60 was no picnic during the cold, harsh winter months.

Eventually, they made it to the tiny church and the warmth inside enveloped them from head to toe. Lighted candles adorned the table lining the altar. A poinsettia was placed on each side of the pulpit. ‘Silent Night’ was playing softly in the background and the choir members had already assumed their positions.

The man’s eyes held a few unshed tears, though the woman exclaimed in awe. Moving to a new town so close to Christmas was something most pastors didn’t do; they didn’t expect to be given such a warm welcome and it was an early Christmas present, to be sure.

Suddenly, the music began and the choir began to lift its voice in song singing, Away in a Manger. A hush fell over even the teens and young children that were in attendance; the music had to be coming from Heaven itself because the new pastor and his wife had never heard anything like it - so soulful and rich - as though nothing else mattered except the song that was being sung.

One song led to the second - What Child is This - and Heaven itself had come down to the tiny church; there wasn’t a dry eye as God moved among His people, whispering to their souls the messages He wanted them to hear.

It seemed too soon before the service had come to an end; everyone could have stayed and sang the beautiful carols all night but, eventually, they would have to go out and face the raging winter blizzard which didn’t seem to dissipate.

“That was a beautiful service,” the pastor’s wife said as she stepped into the swirling snow. “I’m so glad you convinced me to come.”

“Honey,” he replied as he looped his arm through hers, “a Christmas blizzard is the most wonderful. It reminds us that, despite the storms we face in life, God is watching over one and all - and ready to grant a blessing when we least expect it.”

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