Spring is officially here—at least by the date. Around here we can see more and more of the evidence of warmer weather as the trees and flowers are putting on their spring growth. Their absence in the winter seems to make the colors appear so bright this time of year.

As I drove by a park area in town, I was captivated by all the different colors—green, pink, yellow, purple, and white. So, I had to go back there and take some pictures to share with you, my readers!

We usually think of the beautiful colors of orange and red in the fall leaves or the holly berries in winter, but this spring I have noticed that the new growth on many trees begins as a shade of red or orange, before the leaves turn green. Then there are so many shades of green that we call “green”. That makes me think of all the different shades (or what we sometimes call colors) of skin tones. Some want to judge others by their skin and use this to say there are different races, but there is only one race—the human race. God created Adam and Eve and we are all descended from them.

Back to the colors of nature! Spring is my favorite time of year, partly because of all the colors and the flowers. I only wish this season would last longer, but I do enjoy it, along with the warmer days and more sunlight. I am thankful there are flowers of different kinds that bloom throughout the year. Having pictures of beautiful blossoms also allows me to enjoy them at any time.

[I began writing this in March, and did not come back to this until today.]

As I was looking back at some of the photos, there were several things I noticed. The pictures were from different locations. The work of other people brought me joy, even though they never knew it. How often are we blessed by others, and how often do we bless others without knowing it. Some of the plants were in more formal settings, while others were wildflowers, or even what some call weeds. We can find beauty in all levels of society and socio-economic status. Some blooms were in bunches, while others were single blossoms. Some people thrive in a crowd or among people, while others feel more at peace when they are alone. Many plants have only a single hue or color, while other blooms combine colors. We may think or see people in just one way, but if we take the time to “look”, we may find many more gifts they have to offer.

When the spring flowers fade away, enjoy the never-ending colors of each season. As you go through your daily life, look for all the blossoms around you. Some of the beauty will be obvious. For others you may have to look a little closer! Let your colors show through to those who see you.

Mathew 5:16

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. (MSG)

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (NKJV)