In recent days, I was privileged to spend time up in the Arctic circle. It was during the 46 days of polar darkness, meaning that the sun did not cross the horizon in these days because the land is so far north. There were some twilight hours however, between 8.30am and 2pm. One of these times was called the blue hour, when the sky and the sea took the hue of deep indigo, contrasting sharply with the white snow coloured landscape- it was a mesmerising time of day, the blue hour was in the morning and in the evening- times of transition.

In the middle period, when snow was not imminent, there were periods of subtle and sublime colours in the sky and reflected on the waters. They were constantly changing, a dozen shades of ethereal pastels- yellow, violet, pink, orange, grey, azure and so many others, shimmering on the horizon. They appeared delicate and fragile, and kept changing in a synchronicty of dance.

Trying to find the words to describe these shades of  colours falling on infinite snowy mountains, fjords and numerous islands is beyond language. And it reminded me of the subtlety and nuance of human existence. At its best, nuance is expressed in poetry and theatre, sublety in art and music and literature. It is part of our humanity.

In this often strident and  harsh world, where opinions are polarised, and so many fight for survival by stereotyping and demonising their enemy, we need to remember the power and goodness of subtlety and stillness, of quiet prayer and civil discourse. Times of reflection and quietness, help us listen more deeply, to one another, and to God.

Karl Barth famously said ‘ to clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world.’

We may be quiet in demeanor, but we are not to succumb to hatred and derision. We follow the way of Jesus, calling out what is corrupt or hypocritical with fairness and a concern for the wellbeing of all. We are called to do this, but with the gentleness of a dove, and the wisdom of a serpent. Let us not give up when the rhetoric of bullies is loud and brash, and let us not take up their tactics, however we might be tempted. We follow a Saviour who has already won the victory for the all surpassing transformative power of love, goodness and forgivenes. In society people always disagree, but may we do so with dignity and respect. In every circumstance, may we follow Jesus’ example faithfully, and be empowered by your Holy spirit, to pray and work for a more harmonious and just society.

Gracious God, You are just and loving and kind, You made this earth and her peoples, to live in harmony and peace. Yet we rebel and look after ourselves at the expence of others, we speak with anger and frustration complaining about and shouting at those who think differently.  Forgive us for our pride and arrogance.

Lord Jesus forgive our cries of indignation at our own circumstances, and refocus our hearts that we might hear the cry of the poor, the marginalised, the wounded and the despairing. Take away our complacency, soften our hard hearts. May we follow the ways of love to speak with moderation and a quiet wisdom that comes from your spirit, on behalf of the suffering and dispossesed. Let us not become weary  but remember that there can be strength in quietness, and wisdom and beauty in regulation and subtlety. Guide us as to how best to pray, and to be salt and light in these days of discord, that we might humbly but clearly be bearers of Your light, Amen