Today the daylight lasted two minutes and fifty-seven seconds longer than yesterday. Suddenly the days seem longer. I know it doesn’t happen suddenly but it sure feels that way. It has, in fact, been a gradual movement since the winter solstice as the sun makes its journey back to us. But several people on Sunday said, “Have you noticed that the days are getting longer?” This was said with excitement and delight and with a lilt in the voice. When I observed it to one person he said, “I don’t know why you sound so surprised it happens every year.” Yes, it does, but every year it feels so good that we can’t help but celebrate. This year the winter has seemed so long and cold it makes one long for sun and warmth. Today the temperature has climbed to single digits but it has snowed all day as a remidner that winter is far from gone. But, it doesn’t matter, we know that the sun was here for 2 minutes and 57 seconds longer than yesterday and in that is the promise of spring.
Psalm 65:8 says, “Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy.” Maybe that is why longer days seems so exciting. It is the universe’s echo of God’s providence and care. All I can say is, “Bring it on.”!
