January in these parts is known for its snow and ice and today is a typical January day. Ice...on top of the snow and ice that already exist from a few days ago. People talk about how snow storms take us out of our normal routine and separate us from those we care about. And this is true to some extent. With this most recent storm coming on a Saturday evening and Sunday morning, this was especially true for those of us who rely on Sunday church services to anchor our weeks. But an interesting thing occurred. People gathered around their computers watching sermons in pajamas. Granted this is not as "good" as the "real thing" when we actually have personal contact with others in church but it was different...fun for a week maybe. We were connected in a different way. We reached out in a different way...phone calls were made to connect to those who may have had difficulty in the storm. Different efforts were made to reach out to people and connect. We understand the importance of reaching out especially in trying times.    O God, we understand the importance of reaching out to each other, especially in difficult and trying times. We think we understand connection. Help us to always be connected through you for you are the only one who can bring us together. Thank you for using whatever means possible to bring us to each other. Continue to gather us, both under your wing and to each other. Amen.