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Spring is, among other things, a metaphor for renewal, and renewal often involves taking risks. For years, we had a blueberry farm. When the buds swelled early on our blueberry bushes, they were a pleasant sign of tasty things to come. But . . . if the budding occurred too early in the year because of a mild winter, the risk may not necessarily pay off in robust and prolific fruit in July. Because 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.

Over the 34 years we grew blueberries, Larry and I learned this: there were many risks in the farming life. Likewise, if we want to experience renewal and become all that God designed us to be in our caregiving 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, take a deep breath, 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. This springtime, you just may find a better “you” emerging. You might experience a new and refreshing perspective on life. Yes, there may be risk. But there may also be renewal. Give it a try!