As we move into winter the days are short and often gloomy and much in the natural world dies back or goes into hibernation. This month we may be painfully aware of so much conflict and suffering in our world that we feel overwhelmed, even to the extent of crying out with Jesus from the cross “My God, My God, why have you deserted me?” (Mark 15:34). We may feel that light and hope have left us.

In times of darkness and despair we are encouraged to trust that God will never forsake us. The prophet Isaiah speaks to us of God’s promise of hope and redemption in chapter 40, beginning with the words “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God” (Isaiah 40:1)

There is a proverb, whose origin is unknown – it is better to light one candle than curse the darkness. Perhaps we can find the courage and hope to be that candle in the dark.

· What makes you fearful at this time?

· What does the dark time of the year mean to you?

· How and where is God present?

The Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, who died in 2008 wrote this poem:

Think of Others

As you prepare your breakfast, think of others
(do not forget the pigeon’s food).
As you conduct your wars, think of others
(do not forget those who seek peace).
As you pay your water bill, think of others
(those who are nursed by clouds).
As you return home, to your home, think of others
(do not forget the people of the camps).
As you sleep and count the stars, think of others
(those who have nowhere to sleep).
As you liberate yourself in metaphor, think of others
(those who have lost the right to speak).
As you think of others far away, think of yourself
(say: “If only I were a candle in the dark”).

“Think of Others” by Mahmoud Darwish, from Almond Blossoms and Beyond. Translated from the original Arabic by Mohammed Shaheen. © Interlink Books, 2010.

You may wish to watch and listen to an audio visual of this poem here