Spring

I am working in my home office today, looking out the window as I type. Spring is surely arriving. The little daffodils are up and in full bloom, sheltered and warmed in the flower bed next to the garage. The crocuses by the front door are up, but there are no blooms yet. It's too cold where they live, but they are almost ready.

At First Presbyterian Church we are in the middle of Lent and Easter will soon be here. The end of winter included for our family the death of my wife Jean's father. He was the family patriarch, a sign of strength and stability right up until the end of his life. He also was blessed with a clear mind for all of his ninety-six years. We will miss him and his wise counsel.

The sermon I am working on for Sunday comes from a text in Ephesians 2 on God's grace and forgiveness. It speaks of personal and corporate renewal, and the possibility of fresh beginnings. We all need encouragement and hope. These we find in the coming and spring and the joyful message of Easter.