Epiphany Light and Warmth

On this bitterly cold, windy January morning in New Hampshire, my prayers go out for all those who have no housing or housing that provides insufficient shelter from the winter weather. I pray also for those whose limited income makes it difficult to pay for heat and utilities. In this Epiphany season, may the light of Christ and the support of community brighten and warm their lives. May God create a society in which no one has to live without heat or housing.

In this winter season, I also remember all those who are caught in the darkness of depression and seasonal affective disorder. May the love and prayers of the community surround them in care, and may the light of Christ break through the darkness of their depression. In the words on a hymn written by Rusty Edwards (published by Hope Publishing Company): "Praise the One who breaks the darkness, with a liberating light."

Amen

A Meditation on the Revelation of Jesus in his hometown Synagogue (Luke 4:14-21)

This story from Luke's Gospel tells of Jesus' visit to his hometown congregation. Like many of us, when we show up at a church where we have worshipped frequently in the past, Jesus was "pressed" into service. He was asked to read the Scripture appointed for the day. When he was handed the scroll of Isaiah, he opened to a passage that begins "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me."

I wonder what his friends, neighbors and family thought when Jesus began to read this passage. If Mary was present, I wonder if she was thinking of the visit from the angel who told her that Holy Spirit would come upon her and she would conceive a child. If Joseph was present, was he thinking of his visit from the angel? Did Jesus look different as he read this passage? Had any of Jesus' friends seen signs of the Spirit infusing into him? Had they ever felt the Spirit of the Lord upon themselves?

Have you ever had an experience of the Spirit resting upon you? Have you ever had your load lightened or unexpected joy flow into your life? Has the Spirit ever interceded on your behalf, perhaps sending you in a different direction than you had planned? Has the Spirit ever given you an unexpected insight?

The Holy Spirit is the aspect of the Trinity that many of us are the least familiar with, or the least comfortable with. Particularly, if you are of a practical or scientific bent, the Holy Spirit may seem otherworldly. Yet God promised us the gift of the Spirit as an Advocate and Counselor. Listening for the Spirit is a time honored way for church groups to seek guidance or understanding prior to making a decision.

If you are reading this mediation, may the Spirit of the Lord guide your thoughts and your ways in the coming days.

Prayers for the People of Haiti in Epiphany

In this season of Epiphany, Dear God, we remember how you are revealed to us through your son Jesus Christ. Reveal yourself NOW to the people of Haiti! Where there is grief beyond all comprehension send your enduring comfort. Where there are pain and suffering, bless the people of Haiti with your healing and well-being. Where there is despair, send the hope of the resurrected Christ. Where there is hunger Lord, send food in abundance. Where there is destruction, Lord, send willing hands and materials for re-building.

Lord, for the sake of the people of Haiti, we cannot remain quiet. Lord, we call on you in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Send your shalom--peace, wholeness and well-being.
Amen