In the cold of winter we wonder when spring will come. It may not be just around the corner but the vernal equinox is only eight weeks away. Winter is a time of learning patience, a time to consider options for our lives, a time to a time to make plans.
We’re mostly indoors surrounded by the possessions that tell us who we are. An older friend of mine was looking for some item in her bedroom drawers and upon looking in one drawer discovered she had enough fingernail polish to stock a small bodega. They once helped to define her appearance but no more.
How many of our things, our “stuff,” no longer reflect how we see ourselves? Winter is a time to take stock of how we see ourselves, even to divest ourselves of those items that no longer reflect who we think we are or will be when spring does finally arrive.
Prayer for the Day
Gracing our lives with your wisdom, O God, in wintertime,
Clear our minds and hearts from the things that bind us;
Disclosing fresh approaches to our lives in this time of quiet,
Unclog us from old habits that impede us from knowing you.
Enlarge the boundaries of our thought and imagination,
Confronting us with love’s demand for justice and mercy.
In the name of the One who lived for others
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose if there were no winter.
- Thomas Wentworth Higginson, abolitionist & writer (1823-1911)
When all the world appears to be in a tumult, and nature itself is feeling the assault of climate change, the seasons retain their essential rhythm. Yes, fall gives us a premonition of winter, but then, winter will be forced to relent, once again, to the soft greens, longer light, and the sweet air of spring.
- Madeline Kunin, former Governor of Vermont
For to the snow God says, ”Fall on the earth.”
And the shower of rain, the heavy shower of rain serves as a sign for all
So that all whom God has made may know it
Then the animals go into their lairs and remain in their dens.
From its chamber comes the whirlwind, and cold from the scattering winds.
By the breath of God ice is given and the waters are frozen fast.
Job 37: 6-10