RENEWAL

The snowdrop and the crocus pierce the sod.
I hear the voice of gladness on the land;
A bluebird sings a hymn of joy to God.
I feel the pulsing earth beneath my hand.
I see the green of spring come back to hills
Long deep in snow, long deep in frost and snow;
How thus a good Creator yet fulfills
The promises of centuries ago.
"O Lord, how great Thy works," the psalmist sang.
"Praise Him for all the precious things of earth."
For something out of nothing never sprang;
There must be seed before there can be birth.
His ways are goodness, and His thoughts are deep
Who wakes the earth anew from winter sleep.


Edith Shaw Butler