The trees are naked again. Their dark limbs contrasting against the winter blue sky. While the landscape seems stark, when I’m outside it seems I find more treasure. Things aren’t as hidden away when the leaves are gone.

Cocoons are most visible now. Some hang down from the limb. Others cling to the limb horizonially. Most are gray or brown. I study them so hard. I always wonder “who” is hidden away inside.

I marvel at their ability as architects. The cocoons are perfectly designed and built. Whoever is inside will be safe through the winter and emerge in spring. It’s amazing when you think about it. They don’t get wet. They stay warm and safe. Sometimes there is a metamorphosis happening and other times there are eggs inside that hatch. But through the harsh winter they are hidden away. Safely hidden away.

On cold January days I long for days gone by. When I was a child it was “inside time”. My grandparents would crack nuts to put away. My Pappy would take a file and sit by the fire. He would sharpen tools for spring planting. Hoes and shovels would have nice new edges.My grandmother’s knives would be sharp as when they were brand new. Of course livestock had to be tended but most days were spent in preparation for spring. Quiet inside time, hidden away.

Having a time to “hide away”, to rest from heavy labor, enjoy the produce and meat put away for winter, plan for the coming year feels natural to me. But in today’s world, January is back to school, income tax season and busy busy busy.

Our Yeshua always found time to draw away for solitude and quietness. Being alone with Abba God strengthened Him. If Jesus Himself needed quiet and solitude surely we do to.

Maybe the times Abba takes us to a hidden place, He is preparing us for a new season. Perhaps after He has wrapped His Love, His Presence, and His Word around us and kept us secure, we can emerge to the new season He has prepared for us.

Perhaps being hidden away is exactly what we need in a winter season of life.