A Winter Prayer

In the Silence

Lord, in this winter,

let no one be sad because of the cold.

Even in the harshest chill,

let them feel warmth.

Send kind neighbours their way.

Teach us that even a small love

can thaw frozen hands,

that hearts can grow warm again.

Lord, in this winter,

let no one groan beneath the cold.

Just as a fire can be lit

on frozen ground,

let warmth return to wounded hearts,

let smiles be born again.

Breathe upon us, Lord,

just a little breath of love.

One small flame

can grow into a great fire,

and people gather round

to warm themselves by it.

So may our shared body heat

become a greater love,

spreading outward,

teaching us to love one another.

There is no heart

meant only to receive,

and no heart

meant only to give.

Our hearts beat

for one another.

This is the love you taught us,

the love you showed us

here on this earth—

the great love of the cross.

Lord, in this winter,

let no one freeze to death while still alive.

Keep watch through the cold nights,

eyes open.

So that all may live

to welcome the coming spring,

in the silence,

we pray to you.

*these are my own paintings*