Spring, A New Creation by Jason Ling

2 Corinthians 5:17, ”Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

I just saw my first robins of the year this weekend. That is always the sign I look for to reassure me that spring is truly here. And let me tell you I get pretty fired up for spring in Minnesota. Don’t get me wrong, I love winter, but spring is almost like a rebirth or like Paul says in 2 Corinthians a “new creation.”

Just like spring, when we come to Christ something new begins to happen inside of us. A rebirth or a shedding of old things and I love how it’s said,” The old has gone, the new is here.” For some that can be an instant change but I think for many of us it can be slower over time.
 
When spring comes, we first see a robin or two, then tree leaves slowly unfold, lawns begin to green, and flowers begin to stretch out and show their beauty. It doesn’t happen overnight but throughout the whole season. When it finally happens it is glorious to see the beauty that has just unfolded before our eyes. This is the power God has given nature.

It may be that we can be somewhat like spring. We can slowly come to life and begin to grow, flourish and stretch out our flowers or gifts to God. It may not be something that happens overnight but through a whole season in our lives. But rest assured that it is a glorious thing when it happens. This is the power and grace God gives us in Christ.

The Psalmist tells us, “for everything there is a season.” We all have seasons where we may seem to lay dormant, or spring forth and even find contentment in the summer sun. It’s all part of Gods plan and we are so blessed to be a part of it all.

So be encouraged this spring that God is already up to something good in your soul and the souls of people around you. Now, might we help nourish this new creation that Christ has brought about in us. Might we spread the great news so that Christ can change others around us. Might we give thanks to our Heavenly Father for all he has done in this season.

We thank you Lord for your new creation and the grace and mercy you rain down on us. Just like the spring rains down on the flowers and nourishes them may your grace and mercy nourish us. Amen.