“Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven, the sea, and everything in them—-the Lord, who remains faithful forever.”– Psalm 146:5-6.
What a difference a few days can make.
A week ago we were digging ourselves out from under a blizzard. Grumbling in our parkas, scarves, and winter-weight sweaters, we could not fathom a time when we’d see green grass. Yesterday I was coat-less, sketching downtown on the river, too warm, and wishing I’d brought a hat and sunscreen. The snow has been slowly melting, little streams of water snaking their way down sidewalks and into sewer grates. At dinner last night, I noticed my red hands and wrists, a sunburn right up to my long-sleeved shirt. Go figure.
As we journey through post-Easter times, what a difference a few days made for us as well. The cruel oppression of death and sin were made powerless in a few hours by Jesus’ death on the cross, and three days later, His magnificent resurrection broke the power of death so that we can live with Him forever.
As I marvel now at the singing birds, the day lilies poking their way up in my garden, the buds on the trees, and the pervasive sunshine that puts everyone in a good mood, I feel blessed. There is hope now for spring.
And I can hope in something even greater– eternal life with Jesus. I can trust in His promise and what He says is true, that if I believe in Him, I will have eternal life. Death will not conquer me, but will be a doorway to new life.
As spring comes to your life, I invite you to marvel at the sun and birds and flowers. Enjoy it, embrace it, lean into it. But also marvel at God’s promise for you—-God’s love and eternal life. It is also shining down on you, brighter than the sun, warmer than the spring air. Life always comes out of death. Winter brings the promise of spring.
Prayer—“Gracious God, thank you for the hope you give me in your promise of eternal life. May I always remember that in times when winter seems long and life seems hard. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”
Prayer For All Days 