New life in spring reminds us of God's resurrection power

"I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection …"

-Philippians 10:13 (NIV)

As I looked at my computer screen saver, I noticed a picture my husband had taken of three baldheaded, baby birds still in the nest.

It brought back memories of that spring when a mother robin built her nest on the downspout of the neighbor's garage. Each time I looked out my kitchen window, I could see the circular bundle of twigs, bark, and grass nestled on top of the elbow of the gutter pipe.

It wasn't hard to recognize because I'd seen robin's nests before. Each time I spotted one, I looked with anticipation hoping to find some eggs inside. However, I'd never had the pleasure of witnessing life inside those nests.

But this one was different. It wasn't an empty decoy. There were three tiny eggs snuggled side-by-side in the bottom, as if they were being held in the palm of God's hand.

I took my binoculars and eagerly watched each day for signs of life to resurrect from this group of miniature eggs. Then, one day, I watched with delight as a newborn bird stretched its skinny neck up over the top of the nest.

Before I knew it, there was a threesome bobbing up and down, with their mouths open, crying for their mother to bring them some food.

Within days, their little heads were sprouting fuzz. It seemed almost overnight that feathers emerged from their barren wings. My family watched in wonder as the baby birds transformed from barren and bald to a state of beauty. Watching them resurrect from eggs to living creatures was a breathtaking experience.

Spring is the season we celebrate Easter. It commemorates God's display of power in Jesus Christ's resurrection from death to new life.

I think God planned it that way. Watching creation emerge all around us gives us a glimpse of the awe and wonder of resurrection power available to change our hearts, minds, and lives.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She will be presenting " Writing and Speaking for fun and profit" from 3-4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at Panera Bread in Round Lake Beach. Registration is preferred; email Annetteebudzban@aol.com or call (847) 543-8413.