What is it about springtime that turns us into kids again? The sun peeks out and the trees begin to blossom and suddenly the urge to run barefoot through the grass becomes too strong to ignore.
Spring is such an exuberant time. The whole world seems ready to burst open with possibilities and promise. Our gardens start it off by sending up new green shoots to remind us that winter is over and the time of rebirth has begun.
I have a monstrous “pink tree” in my yard that blooms so ferociously that I am always afraid the branches will break off under the weight of the blossoms that crowd its limbs. And, even after the blooms have begun to fade, the tree showers soft pink confetti down upon everyone who passes by as if to say, “It’s Spring, come celebrate with me!”
I must admit that I have been known to put my hair into pigtails, grab the biggest piece of pink bubblegum I can find, and head out into the sunshine. Do I look ridiculous? Yes, I do! But, somehow in the Spring, it doesn’t seem to matter.
I love to walk around the yard and see hope and possibilities surrounding me. Each new bud and gently unfurling leaf is cause for celebration. Some plants I know well and I trust them to produce the fruit that they always have before. Some are mysteries to me and I am unsure if they will become welcome additions to my garden or if they are nasty weeds who will attempt to choke out my favorites. Somehow, they all seem beautiful in their fresh, new forms.
I wonder if this is God’s favorite season? Spring is such a reminder of God’s grace and love for us. He must feel such joy whenever one of us chooses rebirth. When we leave winter behind and look to Him to show us how to bloom, He must celebrate.
Help me bloom, Father. And, please help me not be a weed amongst your new plants. I want to be a perennial in your garden, not a quick blooming, quick dying annual.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 ESV
So, come on Ladies! Don your pigtails and grab your bubblegum! It’s Spring and that is more than enough reason to celebrate. (If you’re feeling brave, share your pigtail and bubblegum pictures in the comment section!).
