We have had several cold, dreary, rainy days recently. An eye doctor appointment forced me to go out in weather that I would rather avoid. As I sat in the waiting room, filling out the forms that ask for the same information every year, I suddenly had a memory flash into my mind.

When I attended parochial school growing up, there was no lunch program, so I always took my lunch. Mom always made sure I had a nutritious meal and a snack. But on days like we had this week, she would often get out the thermos and put something warm in there. It didn’t matter if it was soup or stew or even ravioli. It was a special treat to have a warm lunch at school on a dreary day.

That feeling was hard to describe. It was what I thought of years later while studying German and coming across the word “Gemütlichkeit.” That term is difficult to translate with one word. It has to do with feeling cozy, comfortable and content. It is a something that warms your heart.

That feeling is a reality in my life. I have been extremely blessed. My life is not without its trials and troubles, but I am blessed. I have a wonderful family and home and friends and possessions, but the mail reason I feel blessed is because I know my Savior. Being in a faith relationship with Jesus reminds me that I have everything I need. The one who paid the price for my sins is my friend, my Redeemer and my Lord. I think maybe the Apostle Paul was trying to describe “Gemütlichkeit” in the passage below.

Philippians 4:11–13  I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

This cozy, warm in your heart feeling may also be what this hymn was trying to convey.

When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul

Refrain: It is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And has shed His own blood for my soul   Refrain

My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part, but the whole
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul  Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul   Refrain