Monday; March 20

I think that today is the first official day of spring. For those of us who experienced an 80 degree day a couple weeks ago and those of you who lived through a blizzard last week may be confused – but on the calendar says it is the first day of spring. (I guess it officially begins at 5:24 p.m. EDT – for those of you really care.) Living where I have lived throughout my life the concept of spring is probably more compelling than the actual weather. Spring represents a new beginning – a renewal of life. It conjures up the image of the end of the cold, bitter season and brings about the hope of something free and fun. No matter what this week’s weather brings, people look forward to spring because it is more of a state of mind than an actual scientific season.

Spring brings to mind a spiritual principle conveyed in baptism – a chance at a new life. Jesus would call it being “born again” in John 3 while Paul would observe, “Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4).

We live in a world where people are discouraged and disheartened. They have been negatively impacted by past situations and look toward the future with a dim view of hope. They have been victimized by people who have abused them and sins that haunt them. Wouldn’t it be great if we could get a chance to start again – to put the old cold days behind us and look forward to the freedom of a blissful life? The great news is that through obedience to the gospel we can experience a new (and renewed) life!

Think About It!

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