In the bleak mid-winter, frosty wind made moan… We are deep in the arms of winter and deep in the arms of what mystic and theologian, Howard Thurman, called the work of Christmas – the work that is ours after the magi have gone home and the star has left the sky. So much in our world appears daunting, even bleak, however we know our Creator is at work in the frosty places, and that God’s work inspires our own – finding the lost, healing the broken, feeding the hungry, releasing the prisoner, rebuilding the nations, bringing peace, and making music in the heart. Thurman captured this work of our entire Christian lives so beautifully, and his reflection beckons us powerfully into the coming season of Lent. May we, like Jesus, accept the invitation to embody a love poured out in bleak places. May we trust that new life is near.

Loving God, make us your warmth in the frost, your light in the dark, your music in the ruckus that engulfs the planet. Knit together what we have torn apart. Repair what we have damaged. Liberate our hearts and minds to live truly the life of the gospel. A life that loves and longs for peace. Show us the way to pour out your love. In Jesus name and for his sake. Amen.