An Early Spring Prayer

As the grass grows in green again, and the heat begins to build, the changing of the seasons is near. Going away are the cold and darkness of winter.  Coming about is the light and warmth of spring. Yet I ponder and pray:

“Lord, keep me steadfast in that which winter brought.
           Keep me connected to the people you have drawn me close to.
           Keep the ground rich in the life you have planted and now bring up.
           Keep me warm from within with your love and compassion toward others.

Lord, sustain me in your goodness and do not let me be fooled into thinking that I bring about the brightness that I now experience.
Lord, be merciful in the changing of the seasons such that while storms come to continue the sowing of water and more in the earth for the rest of spring and summer; may it be gentle to our land and lives.
And Lord, prepare us for the mystery of life that we see budding around us.
May it be a reminder of your hope for life of all things; especially that life is everlasting, as we prepare to celebrate the ultimate example of life everlasting in your Son’s passion and resurrection.

Sustain us in this budding spring.
Focus our hopes and thanks and energy such that when we wish to rush them into being early, we wait patiently with you.
Foster within us the new life you have planted deep within to grow new relationships, new beauties of your wonder, and prepare the opening of our mouth to sow the seeds of your Gospel.

Amen.”