We do not have long or harsh winters here in the NorthState, but our trees still go barren and all manner of flora folds up and hibernates. And then around mid-March, right when the calendar says it should, the air begins to warm just a bit, the green pushes through, and the buds begin to emerge, and soon . . . the world is a wealth of color. Amazing.
But what is more amazing is the transformation that takes place in the desert in spring. For most of the year, to the untrained eye, the desert looks like a wasteland––Dry. Parched. Only the hardy and determined holding firm. Yet the seeds of spring are still there––just beneath the topsoil–– waiting for the right mix of rain, sun, wind, and temperature so they can burst into bloom and create a beautiful carpet of color.
Spring blossoms, and in particular desert blooms, should be a comforting reminder for all of us when we encounter those spiritually harsh winters or demoralizing dry spells. Those times when we feel used up, barren, devoid of life.
But we need not despair. Instead we should remain steadfast and wait in faithful expectancy. Through a perfect mixture of resting on God’s promises, remembering His faithfulness, reading His words, and sharing our hearts with Him, God will bring those dormant seeds of our spirit back to full bloom.