As the deep winter snow becomes a memory, the signs of spring are beginning to appear. Planning ahead for that season brings excitement and joy because in our imagination pictures of ripe strawberries and golden red tomatoes are beginning to appear. These images provide the “spring” board for a time of preparation which begins with some dirt and a few select seeds. Placing the seed under the ground, apply a little water and wait. In a few days success becomes evident when a tiny speck of green begins to push through the ground.
Jesus uses this as an illustration of the new life we find through his death and resurrection. Death becomes the passage for renewal and newness of life. Jesus demonstrated it through his suffering and death on the cruel cross. Jesus also illustrated this principle in his teaching when he said “very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24)
During this season of Lent, we are reminded that God suffered along with all humanity so that the warm sun of spring time might remind us of the promise we have in God’s son who brings newness to us through the victory we experience at Easter. It’s Lent, but Easter is coming!