For All Warm Things

For all warms things of this season I thank you, Lord.

For the warmth of my house as I come in cold from shopping. For the fragrant warmth of my kitchen as I turn on the oven and sift and measure and stir and bake. For the snug warmth of the bedrooms when (finally, after much commotion) my children asleep.

For the warmth of this cup of steaming coffee in my hand as I settle down (exhausted, and at last) before the fire that dances so warm and festive on the grate.

And for warm clothes, Lord. These slippers, this robe - all the untidy closets bursting. The car coat tossed across a chair. And the car itself, a warm car to take us places (once we get started). And those warm places: the homes of neighbors, friends, a warm church to worship in.

And the warm people there. The warm smiles and greetings. The generosity and kindness of people everywhere.

I am full of this warmth, Lord. It comforts me, it calms me. It makes me feel a glow almost as rosy as the embers in the fireplace. I want all people to be warm and rested and at peace.

Thank you for this blessed season of warmth in the midst of so much that is chill and stormy. Let it draw all of us together against the coming cold.

~~"For All Warm Things", Margorie Holmes,

from Hold Me Up A Little Longer, Lord~~