This has been a week of warm weather and I was reminded of the pussy willow tree in my mother's garden. I never had good luck growing a pussy willow. I tried several times to start a new plant from a pussy willow branch. After it rooted in water I thought it was ready to plant. It was the transfer to the ground that was the problem. Mine never seemed to grow. But mother's did, beautifully.
It was always such a surprise when the tree was suddenly covered with furry branches or catkins. It is a beautiful sight. So beautiful that many home decorators love to bring branches inside to display. They don't last long, as I recall. The pussy willow in full fuzzy glory was a sign that winter was over.
The pussy willow tree is rather rare. I haven't seen one for a long time. Viewing one in spring is a very special sign. God uses many things in our lives as signs. The prophet Isaiah spoke of signs his people would see as a result of God's blessing on Israel.
"For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar (willow) trees by flowing streams," (Isaiah 44:3-4 NIV).
I will be watching for signs of spring as we enter the month of March on Saturday. Pussy willow trees, forsythia in its glorious yellow display, and crocus that burst forth from the ground. I saw two bluebirds sitting on our deck yesterday. Is that another sign? Anyone spotted a robin yet?
Thank You, Beloved God, for all of creation and for the signs of spring. We place our trust in You alone, Lord, for You have shown us Your love through Jesus Christ Your Son. Prepare our hearts for the season of Lent. Walk us through this holy season with eyes wide open for Your signs and strengthen our faith. We praise You, in the Name of Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
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