In Idaho where I live, dawn comes late this time of year. And mornings are cold! I really don’t mind it though. I enjoy getting out of bed, bundling myself up in a sweatshirt, and sipping hot coffee in my favorite chair before the sun makes its appearance.

In the morning, the chair in my front room is a place of peace and calm, especially with a steaming mug of coffee in my grip. It’s a respite before the chaos of the day arrives. A place to reflect, ponder, and breathe a prayer of thanksgiving.

We have been through a lot the past few years, haven’t we? Divisive politics, a global pandemic, wars, and rumors of wars. There is no shortage of human suffering.

And yet…

The sun rises
Birds sing
Babies are born
Stars shine

Signs of hope are all around us.

If we look. If we listen. If we pause.

A cold morning and hot coffee is more than just a cold morning and hot coffee. It is an opportunity. It’s a reminder, and it’s a promise.

God is still good.

And, His creation is still good.

So from the Book of Common Prayer, let’s pray this together: (The cold morning and hot coffee are optional.)

For the beauty and wonder of your creation, in earth and sky and sea.
We thank you, Lord.

For all that is gracious in the lives of men and women, revealing the image of Christ,
We thank you, Lord.

For our daily food and drink, our homes and families, and our friends,
We thank you, Lord.

For minds to think, and hearts to love, and hands to serve,
We thank you, Lord.

For health and strength to work, and leisure to rest and play,
We thank you, Lord.

For the brave and courageous, who are patient in suffering and faithful in adversity,
We thank you, Lord.

For all valiant seekers after truth, liberty, and justice,
We thank you, Lord.

For the communion of saints, in all times and places,
We thank you, Lord.

Above all, we give you thanks for the great mercies and promises given to us in Christ Jesus our Lord;
To him be praise and glory, with you, O Father, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever.

Amen.