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Spring is, among other things, a metaphor for renewal, and renewal often involves taking risks. On our blueberry farm, when the buds swell early on our blueberry bushes, they are a pleasant sign of tasty things to come. But . . . if the budding occurs too early in the year because of a mild winter, the risk may not pay off in robust and prolific fruit in July. For, a late spring frost—which is not unusual in West Michigan—can turn the swelling buds brown and lifeless.

So it may be for our own renewal: of body, spirit, or relationships. Risk—the occasional “elephant in the room” —may turn our early efforts ineffective before they blossom into new life.

There are risks when growing blueberries. Likewise if we want to experience renewal and become all that God designed us to be in our care giving efforts, we need to risk stepping out of our comfort zones.  A book title says it all, If You Want to Walk on Water You Must Get Out of the Boat. 

So ask God to help you and then venture forward and do something new and difficult. Take a risk—like visiting an elderly person in a nursing home, sitting with someone who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, baby sitting the kids of a single mom, or visiting that grouchy neighbor. Step out of your comfort zone. You just may find a better “you” emerging. You might experience a new refreshing perspective of life, of yourself, of God.  Be renewed.