Seasons and Second Chances

I want to share a song that is perfect for March -- when things are starting to be born under our feet but we’re oblivious, wearing boots, and aching for Spring. This time of year I always have this feeling of anticipation and of needing to say goodbye to old, stale ideas about myself and the world. Living in the Midwest, we are lucky to get to experience every season so fully. I think it would be hard to really feel the renewal of Spring without our winters. When I hear “Every Season” by Nicole Nordeman, I am reminded of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that marks so much more than our landscapes. I am reminded of the beauty and purpose of my spiritual winters. I am reminded of our God of second chances when I am “frozen” with my own failures. I am reminded of the promise of spring. She writes:

Every evening sky, a invitation to trace the patterned stars.

And early in July, a celebration for freedom that is ours.

And I notice You in children’s games

In those who watch them from the shade.

Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder.

You are summer.

And even when the trees have just surrendered to the harvest time.

Forfeiting their leaves in late September and sending us inside.

Still I notice you when change begins,

And I am braced for colder winds.

I will offer thanks for what has been and what’s to come.

You are autumn.

And everything in time and under heaven finally falls asleep.

Wrapped in blankets white, all creation shivers underneath.

And still I notice You when branches crack

and in my breath on frozen glass.

Even now in death you open doors for life to enter.

You are winter.

And everything that’s new has bravely surfaced, teaching us to breathe.

And what was frozen through is newly purposed, turning all things green.

So it is with You and how you make me new

with every season’s change.

And so it will be as You are recreating me

in summer, autumn, winter, spring.

- Nicole Nordeman