I went outside this morning to put sunflower seeds in our bird feeder, and I noticed several things. The huge evergreen tree far out in
our back yard is full of grackles, chuckling, whistling, and rattling happily—and
loudly. The little white baby’s breath flowers
are blooming beside the driveway and around the edge of our patio. The hot pinks
and reds of the japonica (pictured above) and the lavender red bud trees are
bursting out. The lilac bush and the rose of Sharon have tiny leaves.
Hooray, spring is coming!! Every year, just about the time
we believe winter is a permanent condition, it goes away. Spring is a time of
hope, a time when my heart, accustomed to gray cold, peers out the window and
sees joyful green.
It is the season of Lent, the 40-day period leading up to
Easter. I believe God chose the perfect timing for the resurrection of Jesus
Christ, the ultimate symbol of hope and joy. But then, his timing is always
perfect. Many people sacrifice something during Lent, to help their minds and
spirits focus on Christ. This year, my sacrifice is to spend extra time in prayer,
study, and writing about what it all means for my life.
Because of his death and resurrection, we have the hope of
eternal life. And also, because of his
death and resurrection, we don’t to have to live in winter dreariness. Children
usually accept his love much more readily than adults. We adults have had
plenty of years to develop ideas about how undeserving we are and how
impossible it is that God might love us. One of my uncles said, “God doesn’t
like me. I’m too mean.” The thing is, we don’t have to deserve it; his love is
a gift.
When we realize this and accept his unconditional love and forgiveness,
we can live in the hope, joy, and peace of spring. We can learn to forgive
other people who may have hurt us—and to forgive ourselves. Our hearts can rise
out of heavy winter snowstorms and live in the light, warm springtime. Because
of God’s love, we have this possibility of hope. We can throw open the doors
and windows and let in the sweet scent of lilacs.
Note:
The picture of the japonica was borrowed from a gallery by
Martin LaBar at www.flickr.com
Visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology site at http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/common_grackle/sounds to hear grackles’ sounds—especially the sound track called “calls
of flock.” Many people think they are pests, but they are so joyful, I love
them.
