I wrote the following poem to be read at a Fellowship Dinner carol sing at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Venice, FL. To me the concept of "winter" represents a time of darkness, anxiety, and uncertainty. It is also a time of waiting for new life. Who was it that used the phrase, "The winter of our discontent?"

At the beginning of the 1st century CE, the world was experiencing times very similar to our own. An event broke into that darkness via the birth of a child. I believe that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah who was awaited by the Jews to free his people from their suffering under the brutal rule of the Roman Empire. The people of his time did not recognize him because they looked for a violent overthrow of Rome. The people of today still do not recognize him because they also believe in the way of violence.

Today, a new empire is establishing its influence as the only remaining super power on this planet. This new empire is using tactics just as brutal, or maybe even more so, as the Romans used in pacifying their known world. Does the way to peace still lead through the cross on Golgotha where the Prince of Peace gave his life in a display of love for his enemies? It is my thesis that it does, and that his peace still provides hope for all his children, no matter how they worship God. His way is the way of love and peace.

I would like to dedicate this poem to all who seek peace in a troubled world.

Amid the Cold of Winter