The meaning of Spring

Walking toward the risen sun on Shady Lane this morning and considering the blessings of fresh air and still strong legs, trees, friends, family, I thought of making a conversation with a beloved granddaughter. It seemed at the same instant I felt a nudge that the conversation I should make at the moment was with the indwelling Holy Spirit instead. At that moment the bells started and I smiled to realize the hymn:

Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord; Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word. Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.

Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone. By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be; Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.

Take time to be holy, let Him be thy Guide; And run not before Him, whatever betide. In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord, And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul, Each thought and each motive beneath His control. Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love, Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

The bells are never long, nor often do they play an entire hymn; just enough to recognize it–-just enough to get me pondering the message if I remember it. The second hymn started as I topped the lane where Frank and Dixie have three crosses at the front of their property.

At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away, 

It was there by faith I received my sight, and now I am happy all the day!

I wonder if the saints in heaven get to rejoice to see God working in the saints on earth. If so, I was thanking Marie Sells who led “Jr. Church” and taught us many wonderful songs, Pastor Fesmire, Pastor Brown, my parents, my grandparents, so many others, so many others. I wonder if the thought of seeing these again should lessen the fear of death.

Then I looked up and saw the smallest green buds all over the trees, even some of trees broken by our storms. In spite of destruction of wind and winter, the Spring always bursts forth. I believe in the Resurrection. Thank You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.