Springime Promise
As I am writing this column about springtime, a blizzard is swirling, hurling snow and wind against my warm and snug house. Spring seems like such a long way off. But its promises beckon me to contemplate the next season–the promise of new birth, of an awakening of the earth from the dead of winter into the aliveness of spring, of shaking away the dirt and mustiness of my life and opening up to God’s refreshing light and His promise of a new life with Him.
Spring offers us the chance to start anew, to let go of the past, and to plant seeds for the future. As a mother, I have had to “plant seeds” within my daughters as they have grown through many seasons–from sweet little babies, to temperamental toddlers, to curious kids, and to turbulent (yet terrific!) teenagers. Some of these seeds were tossed to the side, others have already blossomed, and many are still taking root. This natural progression of growing through seasons can be painful, at times, but exciting to watch and challenging to manage.
I am reminded of a verse from Psalms 126:5, “Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy”. There have been many tears shed as I have tried to sow the seeds of wisdom and discipline, but now I can see where those tears were well worth the pain because my daughters are becoming beautiful Christian women who bring joy to those whom they touch. They have learned that suffering consequences–while not “fun”–has helped to build their character and shape their values. “Sow for yourself righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord.” - Hosea 10:12
My daughters are in the spring of their lives, where their whole lives lie ahead of them, full of promise. It is their time to begin sowing their own seeds, and to seek the Lord in their lives every day.
“For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of the birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; the fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vine with the tender grape, give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away”.
~ Song of Solomon chII, v. 11-12
So, arise, my loves, my fair ones, and follow God’s springtime promise of everlasting life by following his commandments and allowing those seeds of love and faith to blossom in your hearts and souls. I shall watch over you and pray for you and love you for now and forever, and delight in watching you grow strong in God’s graces.
©2008, Valerie Wolff
