Spring is my favorite season.
There is such beauty in the changing of the seasons, and something sacred in the new and renewed life that rises as the weather becomes warmer. I love watching buds appear on trees, listening to the birds return, and feeling the sun on my face after a long winter. It is not lost on me that spring is a perfect analogy of the Savior’s Resurrection, a time when life rises again, stronger and brighter than before.
For me, winter often seems to drag on. And while I love the snow, seeing nothing but empty trees and scraggly, sad bushes makes me miss the leaves, the sunlight, and the sound of birds returning again. The world feels still, almost lifeless, and I can’t help but long for warmth and color. I think that’s how life can feel too, the moments that are quiet, lonely, or painful can make us miss the joy and vibrancy of what we hope is coming.
Life, like the earth, has its seasons. We are born into our own proverbial spring, full of promise and new beginnings. We pass through the summers of our lives, with growth, learning, and experiences that shape us. And just as surely as the seasons change, we face our autumns and winters, times of trial, loss, or sorrow. One day, our earthly lives will come to an end. I often find myself wondering what life would be if that were it, the end.
I think it would suck.
But thankfully, life is not like that. Just as winter is not everlasting, our death is not eternal. We have a Savior who died and resurrected for us. He lives. Because He lives, we will live. Because He lives, we can return again. Because He lives, families are not lost, only separated for a time. Because He lives, we can repent, find peace in our sorrows, and discover joy even in our trials. Because He lives, eternal life is possible.
Because He lives, I don’t have to fear the winters of my life. Even in moments that feel heavy, cold, or empty, I can hold on to hope. I can remember that spring always comes, that the earth renews itself, and that my soul can be made new again. I can see the beauty in life, even when it feels hidden, and trust that brighter days are ahead.
Because He lives, I know we will live again. I know that families are forever, that love endures, and that peace and joy are real promises, not just wishes. Because He lives, I can face the challenges and trials of life with courage, hope, and gratitude.
I am so grateful this Easter season for a Savior who loves us, and for a Savior who lives. Because He lives, life is full of promise, hope, and renewal, not just for a season, but for eternity.