Winter

by Rosemary Gingerich

In spring I know your joy and laughter.

In summer I know your abundant love.

In fall I know your smile overflowing into colors,

But in winter, I know your faithfulness, God.

I shed what is only temporary

And my truest self comes forth, bare before You

I stand in all my weakness and frailty.

And yet, You remain.

You never let go of me, never.

Yes, winter sings of your faithfulness,

Declares your faithfulness

To my rawest self. You sow yourself

And stand with me. You never leave, never.

Yes, there is no season more fruitful than winter,

For here I fall into the depths of God

And discover I am cradled by a faithfulness

That never stops giving.

What a privilege to know You in winter, God.