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Good morning. In the changing light and sound of the early morning I am aware that Spring is here.

I have the immense privilege of living in a city surrounded by stunning countryside; and the signs of spring are everywhere in blossom, flowers, birdsong and the changing light on fields and buildings.

Yesterday I observed some random spring flowers peeping through gaps in the city concrete cracked open by the frost; and it reminded me that spring does not deny the truth of winter. The new life does not deny the death that has been; the long hours of darkness, the often cruel cold or the devastation of flood; but this season of spring does say that hope and life are stronger.

When Jesus appeared to his friends after his resurrection, the wounds from the past were still present. Jesus showed them the marks in his hand and side, made by piercing nails and a spear as he was cruelly tortured to death.Ìý

The wounds had not vanished – but new life was present in the risen Christ. A new chapter was emerging.Ìý

As a follower of Christ living this week of Easter, I know that the places of past pain can be woven by hope into a new season.

God of our past, present and future, may we have the courage to acknowledge the wounds and winter of our lives, and yet be determined to live the season of the now with springtime hope. Amen.
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