Spring is such a beautiful time of the year. Yet, at the moment, we need to be staying inside as much as possible when outside the sun is shining, the sky is clear and the temperature so very pleasant. Let's not be fed up though, there is still plenty of 'outside' that we can enjoy while 'inside'. Around us are signs of life emerging after the winter, trees starting to go green and flowers growing. The dawn chorus is at its best with the birds in very good voice... Scientists say that birds sing for several reasons, perhaps marking their territory or warning of danger, or they may be threatening a rival or comforting their young. According to the Bible, we can add that they are also praising God their maker. Psalm 148 calls for the whole of creation to praise the Lord and in verse 10 it includes the flying birds. We can enjoy the birdsong in these quieter days and consider that if the birds – in their way – are praising the Lord God then so should we. Even in trying times, there are reasons to praise the Lord God. In fact, especially in trying times we should seek the Lord God in Jesus Christ. Followers of Jesus know that there is always reason for praise.

Loved with everlasting love,
Led by grace that love to know;
Spirit, breathing from above,
Thou hast taught me it is so.
Oh, this full and perfect peace!
Oh, this transport all divine!
In a love which cannot cease,
I am His, and He is mine.

Heaven above is softer blue,
Earth around is sweeter green;
Something lives in every hue
Christless eyes have never seen:
Birds with gladder songs o’erflow,
Flow’rs with deeper beauties shine,
Since I know, as now I know,
I am His, and He is mine.

Things that once were wild alarms
Cannot now disturb my rest;
Closed in everlasting arms,
Pillowed on the loving breast.
Oh, to lie forever here,
Doubt and care and self resign,
While He whispers in my ear,
I am His, and He is mine.

His forever, only His:
Who the Lord and me shall part?
Ah, with what a rest of bliss
Christ can fill the loving heart.
Heaven and earth may fade and flee,
Firstborn light in gloom decline;
But, while God and I shall be,
I am His, and He is mine.

(George Wade Robertson, 1838-77)