Spring Whispered Joy

Yesterday I found the first crocus of the year, in our yard. The sun was shining then on it's golden petals, polishing them to a sparkle. This morning the sky is overcast, so the little flower is holding it's promise closed, but it is still there, waiting for the sun to warm them again.
Yesterday, after savoring crocus yellow, I searched for more signs of spring. It was very quiet outside, no wind, no tractors in the field, no cars on the road, no tweetering finches. Everything was so very still, so I could hear the first sounds of spring.
Last fall our elegant maple trees let down their leaves to insulate the flower beds against the winter cold. Most of the leaves blew away in the stiff December winds, to compost in some distant field. But some remained to shelter the daffodils and narcissus bulbs until February began to warm.
I stood there listening, my ears drawn to faint trembling, the sound of bulbs pushing green leaves pushing promise up through last summer's remnants of shade. A quiet rustle, a gentle tiny movement in the morning warmth. Movements so subtle, my eye could not detect their progress, but progress mighty enough to rustle leaves. Spring whispered joy to me. Warmer days are ahead.

The sound of promise rustled warmth right into my heart. The daffodils are correct. There is a new smell in the air. Harsh coldness is left behind in the dark months. I didn't need my winter jacket, and neither do they. It is time to sing for spring, for God's faithfulness, for the joy of hope anew. Spring forward with new life, for God is with us. He does not treat us as we deserve, but gives new life for old. He brings flowers out of winter cold earth. He gives His love and righteousness in place of my sinful selfish self

This earth is but a dark, cold winter. Soon the Savior will come. We will all see Him, coming in the clouds, surrounded by the holy angels. We will hear the trumpets sound. We will see graves opened, and our loved ones lifted up into the air. Just as sure as spring, the prophecies will be fulfilled. Just as the promises of Jesus, coming to be born as a baby, and die innocent for the sins of all, all took place, so will the promises of heaven, and the forever end of sin take place. Hold onto the promises. Hold onto the Savior. Everything He says is true. Be still and listen closely, you may hear Him whisper to your heart. Even as I heard spring whisper joy.