By Mary Hogan
We are blessed in Canada to be able to experience four seasons throughout the year. Indeed, the seasons are a favourite topic of our ESL learners. From the heat of summer with its ever-expanding array of water sports, to the magnificent display of yellow, orange and burgundy fall colours, to the pristine beauty of freshly fallen snow, we are many times speechless at the artistic diversity painted by the hand of God. But, if you were to ask me what season I like the most, without hesitation, I would tell you that spring is my absolute favourite.
As beautiful as each season is, the beauty of spring runs deeper. As the temperature climbs and the snow recedes, you can see the crocuses poking their heads through the soil, buds forming on the branches of the trees and animals waking up from a long winter’s nap. Nature has come to life again. Why did God plan it this way? Why did God design nature to come alive after a long winter? Is it a coincidence that we celebrate Easter in the spring?
The story of Easter coincides beautifully with the rebirth of God’s creation. The events of Good Friday and Saturday were a time of darkness and despair for Jesus’ disciples. Their beloved leader had been taken from them, beaten and publicly executed for crimes He did not commit. It was truly a dark time for Jesus’ disciples. But then came Sunday. Jesus rose from the dead. Death could not keep Him in the grave. And just as we sometimes despair over the barrenness that winter brings, then comes spring in all its majesty. Death gives way to life. What was once despair and hopelessness is now hope and joy in new life.
Jesus’ resurrection is all about new life. He had to die first to pay the penalty of our sins and then He exchanged our sins for His righteousness. By trusting in Him, we can experience new birth and rejoice in the new life He gives us. May this spring have special meaning to you. As you enjoy the rebirth of nature after a long winter, perhaps you might consider the resurrection of Jesus and the new life He gives us when we trust in Him. Let us rejoice in this new life. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift! (1Cor. 9:15)