Terri Van Pelt- 2018

“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”  Isaiah. 40:31

Easter is the time of year that represents spring is on the way. Fresh buds bloom, animals awaken and the earth seems to come to life again. All of us have experienced the weather change so far in 2018. February was the one of the top 10 warmest on record. Some trees in my own yard began to bud! March 2018 has brought us some unpredictable weather. Should we worry that spring will never arrive? No, we are assured that warmer weather is coming. Spring is the season of new beginnings. Yet when things get complicated, we complain, worry and show despair. With new life in Christ, Christians are reminded of the hope that the Lord continues to offer to us.

We all go through difficult moments in our lives. Many of us experience suffering and need that constant reassurance of hope. God offers his presence to us in all of our moments; when our days are smooth as well as those that are troubling. Easter is another reminder of this hope and time of renewal. When facing difficult obstacles, we often cry out to God for His help. Difficulties are often blessings that draw us closer to Him. We are comforted and reminded of that trust. Spring is just another reminder of God’s Grace for us to witness. I know God places numerous things in our lives to reconnect us to him. It might be through a beautiful nor’easter in March, seeing a robin build a nest in strong branches or even the tenderness of a new puppy. With hope, we can face all things, even when circumstances can be dark and uncertain. We just need to trust, hope and be aware of the whispers of God’s love around us. Should we worry when we feel alone and sense God is not listening? No, it is His Hope that shines the brightest when our world is the darkest.

“Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:5