May 11, 2022

“Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.” (Acts 28:1-2)

Slant spring light, as if newly birthed and testing its sea legs, promises a warmth that it sometimes can’t deliver in the nip and the gust. Longed for thaw is longed for longer. The body must remain guarded at least until after the frost date. Even then, one is wary.

Warmth has a way of dismantling the tightly wound internal coil. Like Jimmy Buffet sings in Boat Drinks, “This morning, I shot six holes in my freezer / I think I got cabin fever / Somebody sound the alarm….  I gotta go where its warm.”

Warmth welcomes, as Paul and crew describe in this verse from Acts. The peace of God that has been given to us in Jesus Christ is an all-season warmth, always there to uncoil your innards and keep you from reaching for your pistol. His Holy Spirit is described as a fire, after all.

“Eternal God, who led your ancient people into freedom by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night: Grant that we who walk in the light of your presence may rejoice in the liberty of the children of God; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.” (Order of Evening – BCP p. 111)