Welcome to March. A time to perhaps turn a corner. An opportunity for a fresh start.
In the early Roman calendar March was actually the first month in their year since it brought the first day of spring and was therefore recognized as the month of new beginnings. Now, in this third month of our year, we also look for the “new” as we anticipate turning our clocks forward on March 14th so we can enjoy a little more daylight in our evenings (and not wake and go to sleep in the dark). We also get excited about the coming of spring on March 20th. This is a month of promise and preparation.
Promise in that the cold, dark and quiet of winter will turn to increased warmth, abundant light and the sprouts of new growth. Promise that the white snow will melt and the green grass will grow. The barren trees that had long ago shed their colors will once again burst to life and provide a glorious covering of shade.
It’s also preparation. Tasks that were set aside for the winter months are now picked back up again. Items that need repair from the harsh weather are added to the “to-do” list. Vacations are scheduled. Family gatherings are organized.
As is true in our human experience, so in our life with Jesus Christ, there is promise and preparation. This month brings the reminder of a promise. Jesus told his disciples on the way to Jerusalem that “the Son of Man will be…condemned…mocked and flogged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day” (Matthew 20:17-19 ESV). Jesus reminded them that things would be difficult (for Him and for them), but that He would be raised from the dead. The promises of life after death, sin defeated, forgiveness offered, and freedom paid for are all brought to the forefront of our minds during this month. This is good news! Jesus made these promises and He has proven Himself trustworthy. He did what He said He would do! Jesus showed us that He would do everything that was needed to rescue us from our sin and restore us to a right relationship with God.
In light of all this, it is also a time of preparation. As we move toward Easter - Resurrection Sunday - let’s not come to that day without having taken some time to reflect on this wonderful news. It is a time of solemn remembrance - there was great pain and sorrow - but the end result is glorious celebration! Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15 of the need to reflect on the truth that has been “delivered to you as of first importance...that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 ESV). Reflect on the fact that “if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17 ESV).
The promise and the preparation are necessary. Think on these things in the coming month so when we join together on Resurrection Sunday we can celebrate fully as those who have been given the gift of new life in Jesus Christ!
