2 Cor. 5:17 (AMP) “Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!”

Spring is on its way and signs of its impending arrival have begun to reveal themselves. Buds are forming on the maple and forsythia trees, and a saffron hue has re-infused the willows’ dangling tresses with fresh colour. In preparation for the arrival of her new babies, momma squirrel has removed a band of fur from her back to line the nest. Once again, the pungent aroma of skunk spray hangs in the evening air as skunks emerge from their burrows in search of a mate. Even bicycles have emerged from storage; enabling eager young riders to navigate the hazardous roadways on two thin wheels. As the days stay lighter longer, life is roused from its dark winter slumber and new life begins to unfold. Springtime is exciting and it fills one with a sense of hope. Springtime holds the promise of new life following the dormant winter season.

For humanity, Christ holds the promise of new life for anyone who chooses to believe in Him. Age, experience, background, status and education, all count for nothing and will not be held for or against you. You don’t have to wait for spring to arrive either! No matter what the time of year, anyone is welcome to become a new creation through Christ Jesus; simply ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior. Just like the hope and energy Spring carries with it, new believers bubble with hope and shine with the light of God’s love; refreshing and encouraging everyone they encounter.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for springtime and all of the hope and new life it embodies. Open our eyes to the wonders of the world around us, and fill our hearts with gratitude for Your marvelous creations. Bless all those folks who are new believers and fill them with Your love until it overflows and splashes on those around them. May their new spark of enthusiasm and love for You encourage and inspire others as they seek to walk in Your ways. Thank you for exchanging our old and imperfect selves, for perfect new creations through Your Son Jesus Christ. We ask all these things in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Marci Maxwell
London, ON. Canada