A Deer Thought

As the deer pants for streams of water,
    so my soul pants for you, my God.

Psalm 42:1

My husband and I volunteer at a rabbit shelter that is located in a wooded area. Part of the fun of going to the shelter is watching for wildlife.  The woman who lives on the property makes it even easier to find the elusive creatures by setting out feed for the local deer.  Last fall it wasn’t unusual to look out the shelter windows to see five to seven deer wandering across the property. On one occasion, my husband had to wait to pull into the driveway because the deer were just hanging out. Mike leaned out of his car window and talked to them while I quietly snuck out of the shelter to join the party.

Once the winter winds and snow hit, the deer became scarce. We still had stories to share with our friends, but instead of the majesty of wild white tailed deer, the stories were about pushing Mike’s car out of the ice and snow. For those months, the wilderness held the aura of barrenness and desolation, not life and energy.

Last week, as Spring was trying to force its way into the area, we made our bi-weekly trek to the shelter. For the first time in many months, we spotted deer through the window.  I immediately noticed how different they looked. The long months of cold were reflected in their vastly more slender frames. The winter had taken quite a toll on these creatures. The good news is that the great thaw has begun and food will soon be plentiful; a return to their full glory is just around the corner.

I returned to cleaning out bunny cages as God directed my thoughts about the deer. I realized how much I am like those deer. In many areas of my life, I am experiencing a sort of winter.  I am weary and the expanse of bleakness seems to extend forever. BUT, God is there with me. He is faithful to bring hope and renewal, just as sure as Spring will come again. This return is due to His goodness, not my efforts. That fact brings a peace that passes all understanding.

There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens.

                                                Ecclesiastes 3:1