When the Skies are Grey, Let Your Heart Shine
This morning, I had the privilege of taking a dear friend to breakfast—a former college professor who is now 99 years old. She needed a break from being inside the house just as much as I did. As we sat together, enjoying a warm meal and good conversation, I was reminded how important it is to seek joy, even in the midst of winter’s long, gray days. The weather outside didn’t change, but our spirits were lifted simply by stepping out, sharing a meal, and appreciating the beauty of life together.
As winter stretches on with its gray skies, cold winds, and seemingly endless drizzle, it’s easy to feel weighed down by the gloom. When the sun hides for days or even weeks, our spirits can feel as heavy as the clouds above. But as Christians, we know that light is not merely something outside of us—it is within us. Christ, the Light of the World, dwells in our hearts, and His joy is not bound by the seasons.
While the weather may not change, our perspective can. Each morning, before the world presses in with its demands, take a moment to thank God for the gift of the day. Even if it looks bleak outside, the simple act of gratitude shifts our focus from what is missing to what is present. Keep a gratitude journal, listing three things each morning for which you are thankful. This small practice trains the heart to see blessings rather than burdens.
Physical light affects our mood, so open your curtains wide, light a few candles, or use a daylight lamp if the darkness feels oppressive. Beyond physical light, remember the power of spiritual light. Spend time reading Scripture, reflecting on Christ’s words, and praying for His presence to shine in you and through you.
Rather than dreading the cold, embrace the beauty of winter by making your home a refuge. Light a fire if you have a fireplace, sip warm tea, and carve out time for prayer in a peaceful space. Set up a small prayer corner with a crucifix, a candle, and an icon or image of Christ. Let this be a place where you rest in His presence.
Music has a profound effect on the soul. Listen to hymns, Gregorian chant, or classical music that lifts your heart to God. Read books that nourish your faith and inspire hope, whether it’s Scripture, the writings of the saints, or even a joyful novel that reminds you of the beauty of life.
It may be tempting to hibernate, but movement is vital for both body and soul. Even a short walk outside can do wonders, allowing fresh air and natural light to clear the mind. If it’s too cold, stretch or do gentle exercises indoors. Offer any discomfort as a small sacrifice to the Lord, uniting it to Christ’s suffering with a heart of love.
One of the best remedies for feeling low is to turn our focus outward. Call a friend who might be lonely, send a letter to someone in need of encouragement, or offer small acts of kindness. Love breaks through the fog of discouragement and fills the heart with warmth, even on the coldest days.
Winter’s slower pace offers an opportunity for deeper reflection. Use this time to strengthen your prayer life. Try the Liturgy of the Hours, meditate on the Rosary, or spend extra time in Eucharistic Adoration. The stillness of winter mirrors the stillness we need in our souls to hear God’s voice more clearly.
No season lasts forever. Just as spring follows winter, the light of Christ remains constant even in the darkness. When you feel the weight of gray skies, remember the promise of Easter—the triumph of life over death, of light over darkness. Hold onto that hope, knowing that even now, God is at work in your heart, preparing it for the renewal that will surely come.
Winter may seem long, but joy is not tied to the weather. When we fix our hearts on Christ, we find warmth even in the cold and light even in the darkness. May this season be a time of drawing closer to Him, of finding beauty in simplicity, and of discovering that even on the greyest days, His love remains radiant and sure.
Stay warm, stay joyful, and always move toward the Light.
With peace and encouragement,
John