Spring is finally in the air! And, as often happens, it seemed to come rather quickly. One day the plants were just leaves growing along a house, and the next there was a long line of bright flowers in full bloom! Spring reminds us of the possibility of new life. I would like to share with you some excerpts from one of Joyce Rupp’s reflections, on how spring can cause us to pause and reflect on the ways of God.
If you drive along a country road on a sunny day in early May, you will most surely see tractors rolling across the farmlands, their huge plows digging up the ground, turning it under and lifting up new goodness. You will see farmers with their planters setting the seed in the freshness of the soil. You will see the beautiful quilted look of the earth – furrows of brown lines left from the plowing, pastures green with growing.
When I look at the earth so lovely in springtime readiness, I reflect on what it is like to have my heart ready for the word of God. I, too, must be open to the turning over and the turning under of last year’s harvest. I, too, must be willing to have the sharp blades of life’s difficulties slice through my convictions and have them blended in faith. I, too, must allow my spirit’s rough edges to be smoothed so that God’s seed can take root in me, so that the word of God will be deeply implanted in my every thought and action. Most of all, I must believe in my potential to receive the word of God and my potential to become an ever more whole human being, recognizing and developing the gifts which the sower has given me. . .
As you celebrate springtime. . .Take a spring stroll. Find something green and growing. Observe little shoots of new growth. Reflect on your need to be open to the seed of God’s word and your potential for goodness. Praise God for all the growth you see in the green of spring and in the green of your own heart.
You might wish to plant a seed or two. Nurture them and watch them grow. As you see them each day, you will be reminded of the seed within you that is carrying so much potential for giftedness and growth.
So as you enjoy this Spring, take the time to marvel at the wonders of God’s creation. And also take the time to reflect on how God might use you in new and exciting ways as you continue to grow into who you were created to be.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Laura