It seems so dark these days, and we have light for such a short time. When it’s dark this much, it’s difficult to remember the promise of light. Many people complain that they feel a kind of malaise, a sense of gloom, even somewhat depressed. After the holidays are over and we are faced with taking down the decorations, we may feel let down, a sense of disappointment, of expectations unfulfilled.

And as the weather gets colder, we might want to crawl into our beds and close the door. We can even feel rigid and cold in our souls. We may think that our lives are frozen and stuck on the outside, while inside we feel disoriented and scattered.

At these times, the promise of spring seems a long way off. In the depth of cold winter, we might not be able to determine where we’re going and how we’re going to get there and why we should do that. We are in great need of healing light and warmth, and of God’s help in finding meaning in our lives.

In the winter season, we need to learn how to be kind and gentle to ourselves – as well as to others. Perhaps we might look for tiny signs of hope that will uplift our souls. We can also turn to God and to others to ask for help. Maybe then we will discover a more hope-filled picture. If we wrap ourselves in the warmth of God’s love, we may learn that the light and joy can be present even in the darkest winter.

Let’s not forget that we’ve already reached the solstice and the days are growing longer and lighter. Soon we will see the sun bursting through the clouds in our lives. Yes, there will always be periods of darkness in life, but we do not need to fear them. The darkness announces and welcomes the dawn. So let us look with hope to a new day and new possibilities.

Beloved Creator of the darkness and of the light, thank you for giving us dark and light times. Please remind us to have hope even in the darkest of times and to lift up our eyes to the hills and to you. Our help always comes from you. Amen.

Joy Carol
www.joycarol.com