What a sight! Almost indescribable! The fragrance, the perfection of innumerable petals of pure white against the azure blue sky, countless bees busying themselves flying from blossom to blossom to gather pollen and the freshness of spring breezes ⎯ heaven on earth to millions of Japanese people who will gather under blooming cherry trees this weekend to view the trees while picnicking, drinking and dancing. Weather forecasters say the blossoms will probably last until mid-week next week, when the billions upon billions of petals throughout the nation from north to south, east to west will fall to the ground and end their weeklong ministry of bringing the epitome of spring perfection to this nation of 127 million people.
The cherry trees bring refreshment after a long, cold winter. Their fragrance brings peace to the overwhelmed heart only for a season perhaps — but when they fall to the ground there is the promise that next year at the same time, the same tree, the same neighborhood it will happen again. A prophet of old said, “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever. For wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; he knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him.” (Daniel 2:20-22)
That’s right GOD made the seasons! It’s the resurrection power of God that causes the billions and billions of pure white petals to bloom on them there cherry trees. Wow! And not a one of them is the same! Just like YOU and every other human being that has ever been born out of his mother’s womb, not a one is the same; each one is special, each one is a priceless, beautiful piece of art.
Right rightfully the Preacher said, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” The Preacher continues, “He (God) has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put thoughts of eternity in the hearts of men.”
The blossoms bloom ⎯ and are gone just like that. The annual exhibition of this glorious event can be likened to our very own existence. We are born into this life ⎯ and can be gone just like that. This annual event is a declaration of HOPE in the resurrected Christ. The spring season is God declaring resurrection and life ⎯ a promise to all who have been created in His image, after His likeness. “Only one life, twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.”
Why not head to church this weekend? It just might be your time, your season for blooming; for coming out of the long, cold winter that’s deep within your heart. You can be sure you will be glad you did go. You’ll feel the warmth and fragrance of God. When people see the change in your countenance they’ll give God the glory for the beauty they see.