THE STORY OF JESUS: Romans 8:18-25
“For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.” (Romans 8:19)
Through the long, cold winter, we wait in eager expectation for the signs of spring to appear.
As the air gets slightly warmer, the days get slightly longer… maybe we spot a Robin!
Winter has its moments, but here in Canada it is cold and dark and messy.
By February the ‘blahs’ set in, and we long for more light, and warmth, and the freedom to go outside.
Interestingly, Paul says that the creation is waiting for us!!!
Waiting for us to come back in the way we were meant to be, as God’s image-bearing children.
It groans under the dark of sin, the cold of hate, the mess and the bondage.
Our world is a mess because of us, and we are groaning with it, dreaming of a better day!
This is our hope, knowing that the glory of that day will melt all our sorrows and pains.
During the Fall, I inwardly groan knowing that winter lies ahead… but spring will come.
Through the winter, I remind myself of better days (when I don’t have to bundle in layers of clothes).
But as winter passes, and we move closer to spring, I look for the signs.
A slightly warmer day is like the firstfruits, the taste of what is to come.
That is how creation feels when it sees us warming up with God’s love, joy and peace.
When Jesus is Lord in our lives, and we allow His Spirit to lead us, we are signs of spring for creation.
Every imperfect Spirit-led word or deed of love is a taste of the glory to come.
It may be dark, it may be cold, the days seem long and we’re still burdened by imperfection.
But spring is coming, and glorious days are ahead of us!
“For in this hope we were saved.” (Romans 8:24)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I see the buds of new life on the trees, and it inspires me with hope. Days of basking in the warmth of the Son are at hand. Until then I will wait, and do my part to add to the signs of new life, with your help!