God of all creatures,
today we praise You for groundhogs,
unassuming rodents who carry
the tradition and mystery
of forecasting spring.
From their elaborate burrows they rise,
half dead: groggy from hibernation,
hungry, alone, stressed;
awakened by an inner clock
synchronized with the
rhythms of the seasons
that tells them it is time
to explore and prepare
for the next generation.
We pray for all creatures who
count the days until the weather
changes, until winter
loosens its grip, until
they can reconnect with others.
We pray for all who are tired,
who are hungry or dissatisfied,
who are lonely or isolated.
In this time between solstice
and equinox reassure us that
sooner or later spring will come.
Grant us patience to see the gifts
of this particular time, and to
savour the stillness.
In our exhaustion release us from stress
so that we might find rest.
In moments of hunger or dissatisfaction
remind us that there is enough.
In our isolation
be a comforting presence.
We pray that whether the sun shines
or the sky is grey, we will count
each day as a gift with
moments of wonder.
Let hope rise up in us, as we
align our bodies and spirits
to your greater purposes
beyond what we see this day.
Amen.
- Rev. Wendy Janzen,
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