Musings: On The Possibilities of Spring

Spring arrives in a burst of energy, sweeping away the lethargy of winter with its urgent call to bloom, grow, and transform. It is a season brimming with possibilities—a time when the earth feels alive with promise. On Friday while visiting Lightfoot and Wolfville (any relation Peter?), walking among vineyard, the buds on the vines were just on the cusp of bursting into leaf! Fields have awakened with green vibrancy, and the air hums with the anticipation of new beginnings. Everywhere we turn, nature speaks of renewal, urging us to act, to create, and to seize opportunities.

Yet, within this urgency lies a quiet paradox. Spring, with all its potential, also beckons us to pause and savor the unfolding beauty around us. Too often, in our rush to embrace its opportunities, we forget to marvel at the exquisite details of nature’s handiwork: the subtle scent of lilacs carried on a breeze, the symphony of birdsong in the early hours, or the kaleidoscope of colors carpeting the earth.

There is wisdom in recognizing that not every possibility demands immediate action. Sometimes, the greatest fulfillment comes from simply being present—allowing ourselves to soak in the vitality of the season without haste. Spring teaches us that creation is not just about doing but also about witnessing and appreciating the moments as they come.

In stillness, we find clarity amid the abundance. Stopping to enjoy what is unfolding reconnects us to the essence of spring’s gifts. It reminds us that amidst the flurry of activity, there lies an invitation to celebrate the present moment, to breathe deeply, and to acknowledge the wonders that surround us.

Spring, then, is not merely an urgent season of possibilities; it is a season of balance—a dance between action and observation, between striving and appreciating. It encourages us to embrace the expanse of its nature: the drive to grow and the grace to pause. In doing so, we discover that sometimes the most profound possibilities lie not in what we achieve, but in what we take the time to cherish. May it be so.

In closing, thank you for allowing me space and time to do just this last week as I took part in the Homecoming Events at the Atlantic School of Theology.

Faithfully,

Lloyd

Looking Ahead

There was no pausing yesterday! The day began with our regular staff meeting followed by an intense two hours of selecting hymns for the next nineteen weeks – a major accomplishment that we hope will assist the Music Directors and others in their preparations and contributions to our Sunday Gatherings. Following a quick lunch I did pastoral visits at the Moncton area hospitals and then had two pastoral visits before heading home for the day.

Today I am in the office at Sackville United Church, writing these words before joining the Lectionary Study Group at 10:30AM. After that there are two pastoral visits scheduled as well as visits at the Sackville Hospital. At 6:30PM I will gather with the Collaborative Commission for its regular meeting.

Wednesday morning will be devoted to crafting a liturgy for Sunday and in the afternoon I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon that I have been waiting for going on a year or more. While I am in Moncton for that appointment, I will do visits at the hospital and one other pastoral visit.

I am off on Thursday for a family celebration and on Friday and Saturday, my normal days off, I hope to be to the shore opening the trailer for the season!

On Sunday I will preside at the liturgy from Visions United Church and Julia will be offering the reflection from Sackville United Church. We are excited to be returning to a blended form of gathering where two or more congregations are joined together in community! The Commission will welcome your continued feedback as this return unfolds over the next few weeks!