Cold to Warm

 

It took a while, but it finally arrived, cold temperatures.  This past week has seen much of New England in a deep freeze, with temperatures registered zero or below.  Factoring any type of wind chill, and the numbers were nearly twenty below zero.  It was cold!  It was the type of cold that seemed to go right to your bones.  It seemed difficult to get warm, although we are blessed with a house that is warm, warm clothing and warm cars.

I thought much on those chilly days and how those freezing days reflect our society today.  There seems to be much shared throughout media (TV news, internet podcasts, etc.) that enhances the coldness in our world, the division among people.  Whether I turn on the TV, open a newspaper, or listen to folks talk in a local coffee shop, all seem to be focused on the negativity and division of thoughts, opinion, and philosophies.  It made me feel empty inside, and even more cold on the outside.

I am certain there have always been times when what is happening in society seems cold.    There have been times of discontent, times of war, times of horrific tragedies.  My goodness, we can go back to Cain and Able to see this.  The same could be said of today.

Where do we as fellow human beings come in?  The same as shared in our verse for today.  Individually, the cold will overwhelm us.  Yet, when we are together with another, the warmth will sustain.  Certainly, physically, that is true.  I also believe this is true in society.  When we come together and build a community of warmth, of love, it will melt the cold that surrounds us.

How can we do this?  Coming together for those who are less fortunate, providing time and resources for people who may not have a warm home to go to on cold nights.  Coming together for those who are alone and providing them friendship.  Coming together with those who may have differing opinions or philosophies than we do in a way to share love with all.  We have a wonderful example in Jesus.  When we act in his love, we are not acting alone, but with another.  Two are present, us and Jesus.  Reaching out in Jesus’ love, we are never alone. 

Take the step out of the cold and give warmth.  Take the step to enrich others.  Take the step with Jesus’ love.  Not only will you provide warmth to others, but you will soon be warm as well.  Keep warm in the love of Jesus.

Dearest Jesus, we thank you for keeping us warm in your love.  With all the division and coldness around us, help us to be the warmth for others.  Let us bring your love, kindness, and goodness to everyone, providing the safety of your arms and warmth of your love.  Amen.