Ed Jones
I love April! It brings the fullness of a new season and the promise of renewal. Spring in Texas means bluebonnets, butterflies, and beauty. New blossoms abound, trees bud, and the sweet song of the finch and demanding call of the blue jay punctuate the day.
Each April, my wife and I travel to the Texas Hill Country to experience the rolling hills, wildlife, and wildflowers. It has been an annual trek for 30+ years. It is the way we renew and refresh our lives and our love for one another and our Creator. From the majesty of the Willow City Loop, to the sublime beauty of Wildseed Farms, the Hill Country comes alive before our eyes.
April is also a reminder. A reminder of the never-ending work of that Creator. It is a time when all things become new and a joy to behold. The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” And, that’s our prayer each time we see the first field blanketed with bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, or evening primrose. We are compelled to praise the God who made them for the joy and peace such a sight brings, and we beg Him to create again in us a heart worthy to praise Him for His magnificent work.
We are weary of the pandemic, saddened for the blight left by the Polar Vortex, but we have hope. Smiles erupted when my wife, Edie, pointed out a small patch of bluebonnets as we came back from Abilene on Route 20. One small patch of bluebonnets, and all of the trials that had so long occupied our thoughts vanished, and hope once again returns.
As you read this, we will probably be in the Hill Country experiencing the renewal of which I wrote. God is indeed good and His love for us is evident in His incredible creation. We pray that you will also be refreshed as you enjoy this special month. May God bless.
Ed Jones pastors Fellowship at the Ranch Church at Robson Ranch. This nondenominational church meets at the Robson Clubhouse on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. For information, visit Fellowship’s website at www.fellowshipattheranchchurch.com.