Signs of Spring

 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.