I remember one December in Windsor, Connecticut. We had a Christmas party for our close friends. It started to snow while we were making merry, which was not unusual for winter in CT, but the snow turned into freezing rain leaving a layer of ice on top of the snow.  Our house was on a street with a small incline so when the party ended, people got in their cars, but they couldn't drive up the hill.  They only thing to do was go back into our house and keep the party going.  After snow plows and sand trucks came through, everyone was finally able to get home but not long after that, the power went out. With two of our kids needing regular breathing treatments, we needed electricity. So we all got in our minivan and drove to our friend's house where there was power.  We stayed the night - the kids thought it was one of the best sleepovers ever!  I can look back on it as an adventure that, with the help of friends that were like family, we made it through.

My trip down memory lane doesn't come close to what people in the central and northeastern parts of our country are going through.  It is in times like these that the best in people come out. Temporary shelters are being opened. People are volunteering. In downtown Chicago, volunteers from the Night Ministry are going to homeless encampments to check on people. Cities are opening public spaces like libraries for temporary shelters. Some have taken more extreme measures, like turning city buses into shelters.  In times like these we see that there are people who genuinely care about their neighbor -who are willing to help the stranger. It's just like Fred Roger's mother used to tell him "look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." Thanks be to God!

Let us pray for all impacted by the record breaking frigid temperatures, cold winds, snow, and ice.

Holy and loving God, we pray for those around the country who are affected by this paralyzing storm. Protect them from the extreme cold, especially the most vulnerable. Give rest and warmth to first responders and to all who are working on the roads. Give strength to all who are caring for those seeking shelter, and all who need shelter. In your compassion, have mercy on all who endure this storm. In the name of your only son, Jesus. Amen.

 

As we enjoy our beautiful weather in California with a sense of frustration over not knowing what we can do to help, know that your prayers do matter - and God hears them!

Blessings and peace,

Karen+