Every year, as Summer heat beats down and yet another plant dies from lack of water (because by August I stink at gardening), I vehemently declare that Autumn is my favorite. Cooler temps, sweaters and jeans, hot chocolate with marshmallows…and the Autumn leaves. Simply beautiful in every way.
But then Winter comes. At first it’s good. I’m excited about Christmas and fill my home with way too many decorations and cook all the cookies, despite my low-carb vow. I tolerate the cold nights by the fire and find joy in a plush blanket…
until January.
Then I’m over it. It’s cold and dreary and dark and all the bare trees, dormant grass and NO SNOW despite the frigid temps send me into a funk. (My area of Tennessee is notorious for cold, snowless winters.) I just want warmer days and sunshine. Is that too much to ask?
And just when I begin to think it’s never going to happen, I inspect the trees lining the sidewalk…especially the one the landscapers were sure had died…and there they are. Buds.
Redbuds, to be exact.
This discovery turns my frown upside down and I get happy.
Suddenly, Spring is my favorite.
And it’s finally coming.
The air is getting warmer by the day and all of creation is pregnant with life and color! Take a walk today. Look closely at the branches and inspect the mulch, noticing the spears of new leaves peeking through and flowers getting ready to bloom. Slow down and put down your phone. Take in the sights and smells of the season and rejoice!
Hosea 6:3-Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.”
As sure as the dawn, friends. Our Lord gives us these seasons in their predictability and consistency as reminders of His faithfulness! Is that not reassuring as we emerge from the cold of Winter? No matter how difficult this season has been, Spring is on it’s way! As we stop and take in the newness of the bright green grass and flowering trees let’s do just what the verse above said…let’s press on to know our Lord, for he is faithful and trustworthy and consistent in all His ways. He WILL come, just as Spring shows her face every single year in the blooms emerging from their winter sleep and the rains that feed May’s flowers! If we press on to know Him, we will be rewarded with what we seek. Intimacy, light, color and beauty will fill our spirits and we will walk in the warmth of His grace.
Happy Spring, dear ones.
A Life of Simple Joys 