The sign reads, “It’s been a long winter, but Spring is coming.” Now that seasons have changed and the weather is turning warmer, those who are waiting to dig in the ground are getting anxious to plant seeds. These times of sowing will lead into a time of harvest, and that’s the cycle of death and of life.
As we approach the Easter season, the examples found in nature teach us lessons about faith. The first signs of Spring have a way of lifting our spirits. For example, along the driveway where I live there is Crowfoot which produces a yellow buttercup flower. This becomes an early sign of a new season of the year and the endurance of nature to survive the cold dark winter as it shows off its beauty.
Our Lenten journey takes us through the darkness of life which is experienced by the One we call the Messiah. How can the One sent by God to save us be subjected to the cruel injustice of the dark side of human nature? Just like the journey which provides challenges for those of us who desire to be faithful, so does Jesus experience the trials and temptations of asking God who He calls Father, to take away the suffering. It does not happen.
This human experience puts Jesus in touch with our trials and tribulations giving us the faith to move ahead in spite of the darkness. Let us then take comfort in the human side of God who touches us in our times of need providing us to become beautiful flowers which bring hope to all who have eyes to see. It’s Lent, but Easter is coming.