Days of brilliant and welcome sunlight are among the great gifts of spring. Abundant light always helps us to see better. In fact, light shows us obstacles and pitfalls where we may stumble, and gives us the wonderful opportunity to avoid missteps. Jesus who calls Himself the Light of the World, helps those around Him see things they would not necessarily observe. He not only enlightens us to hatred and indifference, but He also points us in the direction of change and hope. Jesus’ light is indeed more brilliant than any spring sunshine.

Each Easter season provides us with opportunities to see more clearly and walk more nearly in the light of Jesus. We celebrate Jesus victory over any darkness that hovers around us. Now He asks us to challenge the darkness that holds us back from seeing and caring for others. During this spring, leave darkness behind and bask in the dazzling courage that Jesus’ amazing grace provides.

As we move into the warmth of spring, we pray that the friendship of the Savior steady our steps, and these words of St. Francis de Sales mold our confidence:

“One cannot do anything with a heart that is vain and full of itself. It is of no use, either to itself or others.”

Instead, Easter is the time to fill our hearts with the hope and joy of Christ’s presence. In this way, His light may always shine on the beauty we find around us, no matter what the season may be.

For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God. John 3:20-21