We have had colder weather the last few days.  People have been closely watching the weather forecasts.  Some have been hoping for snow, looking forward to making snow men and snow angels. Others, not wanting to have to get out and deal with messy roads, would rather it not snow.

All of this made me think about what the Bible says about snow. Let’s look at some of the Biblical texts where snow is mentioned and see what we can learn from the snow.

First, snow reminds us that God is the creator of all things. “For He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth’; Likewise to the gentle rain and the heavy rain of His strength.” Job 37:6. Snow is just one part of the seasons God has put in place.

Second, snow is good for the earth. “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower, And bread to the eater,” Isaiah 55:10. Snow is one way God sustains life on earth. In addition to providing moisture for the soil, snow is rich in nitrates.  Snow acts like a “fertilizer” for plant growth in the spring.

Third, snow often symbolizes purity. There are few things that have a “cleaner” look than a fresh snow fall.  “Come now, and let us reason together, Says the LORD, Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18. Sin places an ugly stain on our soul.  But God is able, by the power of Christ’s blood, to remove the stain of sin.

Fourth, snow reminds us of the importance of working in unity. Some areas may get a light “dusting” of snow.  Such a small amount has little or no effect on our activities.  But a larger amount of snow, perhaps a blizzard, often has a large effect on what we do. Schools and businesses close, roads are mostly empty of traffic. Snow reminds us of what can be accomplished when we work in unity.  There’s great power in numbers.

What will you think about the next time you see snow?