The shortest day in 2024 was 21st December and since then the days have been getting longer and we’ll get more daylight each day until we reach the longest day in June. During these sometimes gloomy months bulbs that start flowering early, such as snowdrops, crocus and hyacinths, grow away in the dark, pushing their way through the cold soil, until they reach the light and give us the joy of seeing their flowers.

The sun gives us light and warmth for free, but often in the winter we have to rely on electric lights and central heating, and may be worrying about the increased costs. A good way to keep warm and reduce loneliness is to meet up with others – invite a neighbour or friend round, or go along to a café for a hot drink and a chat. Mental health studies have shown that it is good for us to be connected with other people. And faith is good for us too – some MRI scan results indicate that in terms of brain function, talking to God resembles conversing with a friend.

Thinking of light, I’m reminded of an amazing and thought-provoking painting of Jesus by artist Holman Hunt called ‘The Light of the World’, depicting Jesus standing outside a door and knocking to be let in. He is waiting in the dark with a lantern in his hand, but there is no door handle on the outside - the decision needs to be made by the person whose life and heart is being touched by Jesus. In the Bible we can read that Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’

So, whether it’s enjoying the early Spring flowers, having coffee with a friend, snuggling up in the warmth of your own home with a good book or TV programme, or having a chat with God, I pray that you look forward to longer days as the sun shines higher in the sky, and also that you feel the constant warmth of Jesus’ love in your life. Revd Anne Mason (You can see the painting in St Paul’s cathedral.)