Author of Our Story, who invites us into deep mystery,
As this night falls and a stillness fills the air, we remember how often we are interrupted by storms, fearful and frustrated. Guide us gently into this space of slowing, this time of darkness. As we connect more closely to your Presence, diminish the distance we keep from others. Build in our hearts, fires where others can come to gather for warmth. Give us opportunities to bring hope to neighbors, working alongside one another to clear away paths that are impassable. Persist in us until all paths to wholeness are open. Amen.