Springtime is my favorite season. The days are longer, the temperatures are moderate, and things that appear to be inactive and dead bounce back to life.

Even feelings of hopelessness and helplessness give way to courage and strength.

I experience it every year, yet I’m still amazed at the health and vibrancy that can fill objects once thought to be useless.

My gardening hobby has given me countless lessons in that area. For instance, I once got to an end-of-season sale as it was winding down. Only the rejected items were left.

Among the few stragglers, I spotted a shrub that, though unsightly, had a tag identifying it as a Crimson Diablo variety. Intrigued, I took a chance and bought it. Though I questioned the decision, I planted it nevertheless — though in the most remote spot available.

Today, that shrub, with its dramatic colors and flowers, is a star attraction.

What a reminder it has been to me that despite the challenges of life, not all is lifeless that appears so. God can bring vibrant life to situations and individuals as surely as He brought dazzling beauty to a lopsided, rejected shrub.