"because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high" - Luke 1:78

We move into spring with a number of expectations, some of which may have spiritual focus. We may intend to attend church more regularly, become more involved in some outreach ministry or offer to serve in the upcoming Vacation Bible School. But, are these hopes similar to those of last fall or the beginning of the new year? Our walk with God is filled with many good intentions but failed efforts. How does the Lord put up with our dropping the ball again and again? Because of His tender mercy, the sun rises every morning.

The Hope of Israel and ours is found in the fulfilled promise of Malachi 4:2, "But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall." For those who know, love and fear the Lord there is a tender mercy to allow us new beginnings every day. As little orphan Annie put it, "the sun will come out tomorrow", and when the "sun" is Messiah Jesus there will always be "healing in His wings".

Be encouraged my friend to enter the spring with fresh hope. When the Lord holds you in His eternal grip, He does so with tender mercy. And you can face every day with the words of Jeremiah in Lamentations 3:22-23, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."