{Hope is Alive}

Spring is creeping ever so slowly into the Midwest.  

I sat on my porch and read a book about grace while birds chirped in the trees nearby.  Their warbled songs were a fitting backdrop as I was reminded that God’s grace surrounds us even during some of the unlikeliest moments. 

As I basked in the long awaited sunshine, the cool breeze, and calming sounds, I pondered the fact that this time of year always turns my mind to the magnitude of our Creator. 

Spring reminds me of grace…of hope…of joy.  It’s the promise of all things made new.   The snow melts away, the harsh winds disappear, and we’re left with the growth of tender shoots and unfolding petals.  It's not perfect; there are still dead leaves and unruly weeds to contend with.  But we can see what's beneath.  New is coming.

These words played loudly in my head as I felt the sun kiss my face and the breeze blow my hair askew.  Words from a song I sang in choir as a teenager; a song I haven’t thought of for years

Hope is alive, Love is now risen

Jesus the Christ has conquered the grave!

Fears area behind, sins are forgiven

Hope is alive!

Embrace the hope we have in our risen Savior, and the grace He so freely offers us.