"There have been times when I felt stuck, spinning my wheels, far from where I wanted to be, or even off the intended path. In those moments, someone else crossed my path, stopped, and offered a hand." 

Early morning, Feb. 6th, snowflakes drifted down, transforming the landscape into a blanket of white. The roads were slick, and during my drive, I passed several vehicles stranded in ditches or saw the telltale marks of recent rescues. Upon arriving at work, as I walked into the office, I walked past the large sliding doors leading to the courtyard at The Commons building, pausing to take in the snow falling softly and the icicles hanging from the eaves. 

This sight got me thinking, not just about the cars in the ditch and the slick roads, but about the parallels in my own life. There have been times when I felt stuck, spinning my wheels, far from where I wanted to be, or even off the intended path. In those moments, someone else crossed my path, stopped, and offered a hand. They checked in to make sure I was okay and helped me get moving again. I am deeply grateful for those who have filled that role in my life. Some have been 'snowplows' for me, forging ahead, clearing obstacles, revealing hidden dangers, and making the journey safer. In this way, I think of people like my parents, mentors, and – most importantly – Christ. 

Later, as I reflected on arriving safely at work and watched the gentle snow, the hymn "Whiter Than Snow” – Hymns of Zion #210, came to mind: "Lord, Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole; ... Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." The imagery of being washed and cleansed by Jesus, purified by His sacrifice, and made whiter than freshly fallen snow is powerful. Snow can be so brilliantly blindingly white under the sun. Is that what I am called to be, cleansed and ready to reflect the glory of the SON? I am not to draw attention to myself but instead point others to the true source of glory, power, love, and majesty. 

Here at Gateway Woods, we walk alongside youth and families in every stage of life. Sometimes, we act as the snowplow – clearing the way, pointing out dangers – though we may not always witness their journey. Other times, we are like the second driver who stops offering a hand, helping someone get back on track and move toward their destination. For some, this journey is toward recovery, healing, and forgiveness; we are always pointing to Christ. Sometimes, we are simply the snow on the landscape, quietly reflecting God's glory and allowing our lives to mirror His love to those around us.