As I type this, the temperature in Marshall is a balmy 6 degrees. It’s cold. As Pastor Dave said on Sunday, “…it takes your breath away”. We’ve been spoiled the last two winters in Minnesota with mild winters. But this year, as we settle into December, the world around us is changing quickly, as Minnesota winters tend to do. The trees stand bare, morning frost settles on our windshields, the air has taken on that unmistakable winter chill, and the weather forecasts include the term we all love to hate…windchill. The colder weather definitely slows us down a bit. In many ways the slowdown of winter is an invitation for us to pause, to breathe, and to pay attention. And in this slowing, we discover one of Advent’s most beautiful gifts: waiting.
Scripture speaks to this holy season of expectation. “Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). This waiting isn’t idle or empty. No, this waiting is the kind of hopeful watching that strengthens us, grounds us, and reminds us that God is near.
Mary waited. Joseph waited. Israel waited. All of creation, Scripture tells us, was holding its breath for God to draw near. In this season of Advent, we join them in that sacred anticipation. We wait because we trust that God is still coming, still moving, still shining light into the cold and weary places of our lives.
Perhaps the cold weather can also remind us to draw closer…draw closer to one another and closer to God. To warm our spirits through service, generosity, and compassion. To notice those in our community who may feel the weight of winter more than others. To carry the warmth of Christ wherever we go.
I encourage you, as you wait, to slow down just enough for gratitude to grow. May your waiting be filled with meaning. And may the Christ-child find not just a place in a manger, but a welcome home in each of your hearts.
Stay warm, stay hopeful, and may the peace of Christ be with you all this Advent.
Thank you Josh, for this thoughtful piece.