Nature, which had nearly come to a standstill during winter, now bursts forth around us in full glory. Spring has arrived! This season of renewal serves as a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. The fearlessness with which buds and bulbs announce themselves to the world—regardless of any cold fronts still to come—reminds us of the radical transformation the Holy Spirit brought about in the first believers. Remember: Peter, who once said, “I don’t know him” (Luke 22:57), fearlessly stood up and began to testify after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 3:11-26).
Just as the earth around us comes alive again, we are invited to experience a radical renewal in our spiritual lives. This renewal is not merely superficial; it penetrates deep into our being. Paul preaches about this in Romans 12:2, where he urges us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” God’s renewal is a profound and ongoing change that brings our thoughts, behaviour, and hearts into harmony with God’s will.
The Church Father Augustine of Hippo once said, “The truth is like a lion; you don’t have to defend it. Let it loose; it will defend itself.” With this passion, I join David in praying: “Help me to be excited and joyful again. Help me to shout with joy…” (Psalm 51:10, The Message).
What might be holding you back from fully surrendering to the power of the Holy Spirit? That’s what this series is about—experiencing how the beauty and vibrancy of a new season can also be seen in our own lives. May it be so for you!
May this spring series on spiritual renewal inspire you and fill you with anticipation. May we be mindful of God’s work within us. May we embrace the new life He offers with open hearts and minds.
PRAYER: Here I stand before You, my Lord; do with me what You will.
MUSIC:
Let’s watch a video version of “Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming.” The melody dates back to 1599, with this particular harmony composed by Michael Praetorius (1571-1621).
Performed by Olivia Sue Greene, Wendy Gilles, Chris Carter, and Jeff Morrissey of the St. Bartholomew’s Choir, with organist and conductor Paolo Bordignon.
From the lyrics:
Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming
from tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse’s lineage coming
as seers of old have sung.
It came, a blossom bright,
amid the cold of winter,
when half spent was the night.
Isaiah ’twas foretold it,
the Rose I have in mind,
with Mary we behold it,
the Virgin Mother kind.
To show God’s love aright,
she bore to us a Savior,
when half spent was the night.
O flower whose fragrance tender
with sweetness fills the air,
dispel in glorious splendour
the darkness everywhere;
true man, yet very God,
from sin and death now save us,
and share our every load.