Tug-of-War

I sit here in my "garden enclosed" watching the cardinals and yellow finches along with a loud woodpecker vie for the numerous feeders just beyond the deck. (A pair of white doves just flew by to their nesting place high in the pine at the edge of the yard.) Their song lets me know they're happy. Their number lets me know that they enjoy community. And of course, my feathered friends also signal Spring -- as do the shifting shadows and the feel of warmth on my skin.

This morning I had on woolly slippers and flannel pj's; this afternoon I wear flip flops and crops. This time last week, we were canceling Bible study due to wintry and icy conditions; today, I have my windows raised enjoying 70 degree temperatures. It's certainly a contest of strength when it comes to the prevailing season; and the one being asked to leave is just as stubborn as the one pushing its way in.

As I continue my journey deeper and deeper into Lent, focusing on the passion of the Lord Jesus, I am finding that during this season of tug-of-war when winter and spring struggle with each for dominance, that I also have my own inner battles -- my own conflicts and clashes between self and submission, trust and fear, faith and hopelessness, turmoil and peace, doing or being. And just like the seasons, I am finding both to be willful.

Surely, Spring will reign soon.

Just an ordinary moment...