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BY DR. GLENN MOLLETTE

January often brings snow and ice unless you live in the southernmost parts of the United States. Even then, you’re not guaranteed to escape January without some harsh weather.

The current storm that swept in from the west has left us with about eight inches of snow and ice, keeping us indoors for a couple of days. So far, we’ve only experienced a brief power outage lasting about an hour, but many others have not been as fortunate.

The best we can do in such situations is prepare and hunker down. Alternative lighting and heat sources are essential. You can almost count on the power going out at some point in January, especially if you’re unprepared. It’s always better to be overprepared and not need it than to be underprepared and risk freezing.

This principle of preparation seems to be a golden rule of life. We spend our lives studying and planning to be prepared. School and education are not just about acquiring knowledge; they’re about developing and training for the future. We save money to prepare for times when we’re unable to earn. In sports, the team that wins is the one that has worked hard to prepare both mentally and physically.

Preparation touches every aspect of life. Musicians, athletes, actors, politicians, butchers, bakers, candlestick makers, homemakers – all must follow disciplined routines to achieve success.

However, one reality of life is that some events are impossible to prepare for.

We’ve all heard about cancer, yet no one is truly prepared for such a diagnosis. A broken bone can unexpectedly lead to months of recovery. Accidents and hard times often come suddenly and painfully. These challenges hit us out of nowhere, and while they’re agonizing, we have no choice but to face them and work through them one day at a time.

Just as we prepare for life, we must also prepare for death. While we live, we face all that life brings. But what about death? Funeral plans are one consideration, but more importantly, we must make eternal plans. Where do you want to spend eternity? When the time comes to meet God face to face, will you be ready? Take time now to prepare your heart and mind. Embrace His gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus.

January won’t last forever, and despite its challenges, there’s much to enjoy. College basketball, NFL playoffs, the swearing-in of a new president, a raise in Social Security, my birthday (if I live to see it), and many cozy moments with hot chocolate. Don’t miss the hot chocolate, and don’t miss the chance to take a few naps on these snowy days. It’s almost as if God gave us January to hibernate and rest after the hectic holiday season.

(Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.)