From Winter to Spring

As I was driving home this week through the snowy tunnels that are the roads these days I was struck by how endearing New England is to me. It sounds a little crazy to say at this time of year. One day this week the temperature outside wass 3 degrees and felt like -6 degrees. The forecasted temperature for 7 a.m. (when I will be leaving for work) was -1... I learned that my car will in fact show negative degrees! The forecast for this weekend is snow, snow, and more snow... This only adds to the 2+ feet that already covers the ground. And yet... New England is my home. It's truly beautiful and I can't help but feel attached.

The snow is weighing down the trees and their branches are bent low to the ground as a result. Most of the smaller bushes are completely covered, perhaps a small branch peaking out here or there. There is nothing the snow doesn't touch (Lion King, anyone?). To say it takes over is an understatement... Yet in spite of its suffocating touch, I am reminded that Spring will come again. It's one of the reasons I love New England. One day, not too far from now,  the temperatures will rise to 70s and 80s. After winter has forced most of us indoors, Spring and Summer will pull us out again. The sunshine will finally break through the clouds (to stay) and it will begin to melt the snow. Green grass will grow again. I enjoy the winter season more than some (and less than others), but oh how I look forward to Spring! Take heart, New England!

The turn from Winter to Spring is powerful to watch... And it reminds me of our great God - how he sees a weary soul, bent over by the cruelty of sin, darkened by hopelessness. He takes that soul and shines His Son over the darkness, healing us from sin. It's even more beautiful than Spring time!