We are almost at the midpoint of winter, which will actually occur tomorrow. Various ancient cultures in Europe and the British Isles celebrated these few days as the turning around of winter.. With all the snow on the ground, it may be difficult to think ahead to spring, but it is coming.
The snow cover almost belies the coming spring but if we think ahead, it’s really vital to giving moisture deep into the earth even when it is frozen. In fact, the snow actually protects root systems by insulating them against the cold. Snow is winter mulch.
Snow has another benefit. It slows us down, at least this storm certainly did. A heavy snowstorm forces us to sit back and think. But we cannot forget how snow also affects those without a place to live or warm coats. We should use the snow-filled days to commit ourselves anew to making sure that everyone has housing, not to mention coats, so that the snow becomes beautiful to all.
Prayer for the Day
Preoccupied with our own lives, we often forget how others live;
Broaden our circle of concern to those we do not know.
Concerned for our future, we do not see those who have little hope;
Expand our vision to include those who see only the dark.
Grant O God, that we act to extend your care to all,
So all are adequately housed in winter and summer.
In the name of the One who calls us to act,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
To save a life is a real and beautiful thing. To make a home for the homeless, yes, it is a thing that must be good, no matter what the world may say, it cannot be wrong.
- Vincent Van Gogh, artist (1853-1890)
Think what the world could look like if we took care of the poor even half as well as we do our Bibles.
- Dorothy Day, activist (1897-1980)
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Proverbs 31:8-9