Picking sunshine.

By Lisa Huddleston

“Take a lesson from the fig tree. From the moment you notice its buds form, the merest hint of green, you know summer’s just around the corner. So it is with you: When you see all these things, you’ll know he’s at the door” (Matthew 24:32-33).

It has been a long, cold winter. Some of the coldest temperatures and biggest snow storms our country has seen in many years. But, finally, thank goodness, the signs of spring are growing more visible every day.

The garden is tilled and onions and greens are already planted. The dogwoods, forsythias, fruit trees–all are covered with buds that long to burst out in pink and yellow and green.  The martin houses are swept clean awaiting any early arrivals. And today we gathered our first bouquet of daffodils–later than usual but more welcome than ever because of the long winter. Spring is truly almost here.

And isn’t that just the way it is? The longer the wait, the colder the dark, the rarer the yellow and purple and pink–the more we long for and welcome the warmth and light of spring! Like rays of sunshine sitting in my kitchen. I am grateful.

If you have time, read Matthew 24-25 today and ponder the similarities as the world awaits its Savior. The waiting makes us desire him even more. And speaking of more–join me in reading the New Testament for Lent. Much sweeter than the chocolate or sugar many are giving up for the season–and much more filling.

Margaret Feinberg has a handy reading guide to follow in case you’d like a way to break it down. Yes, it’s already started, but it would be easy to catch up or just begin with Week 2. Like a ray of sunshine after a long, cold winter! 

http://margaretfeinberg.com/lentchallenge-read-new-testament-40-days/

#LentChallenge