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, Burning Bush Forest Church, https://www.burningbushforestchurch.ca
