Is It Spring Yet?

It's around this time every year that I get really antsy for spring. Everything in me craves for sunshine and heat. Living in the north has many advantages, but right now, all of them are probably covered with snow! And those little glimpses of what is to come...those teasing days of warmth, where 20 degrees feels so cozy, a coat is not necessary...they come every so often, just often enough to keep me from despair, from thinking the winter will never end. In the meantime, we stay bundled up, visit with friends, and plan for the activities we'll do in a few months' time.

These winter days mirror my life in Christ. I so long for relief from the trials and cares of this world, and I know that one day, I'll be with Him in heaven. In the meantime, I persevere, strengthened by the gifts of faith and family, seeing glimpses of heaven in the Divine Service and the Holy Supper. These blessings keep me from despair; in fact, they enable me to help others, to give them comfort and hope as we continue our pilgrimage here on earth.

Cristiana