Springtime is my favorite time of year for many reasons. First, we get an extra hour of daylight, so that we can enjoy the many things we like to do. Secondly, the weather is so mild and crisp, just like I like it. And, finally, the trees and flowers wake up out of their slumber in order to bring color and beauty to the world. As you can tell, I love springtime because I get a nice jolt of energy, I start wanting to get outside and do things, and I just love and appreciate God’s creation in all its glory and majesty as it unfolds and comes alive.

Speaking of springtime, unfolding, and coming alive, I just wanted to bring you a few updates of what’s happening in Virginia Baptist life. First of all, God is springing forth a new vision for Virginia Baptists right before our eyes. This vision relates specifically to connecting and developing congregations and leaders for an ever-changing world. This vision is increasingly evolving from the various listening sessions we’ve been engaged in with many of our churches and leaders all across the Commonwealth.  We hope and pray that we will be able to share more about this new vision for the BGAV with you in the coming months.

Secondly, every year, during this springtime of the year, we get a chance to connect and hear from our various ministry partners.  Let me just tell you that there are some exciting things taking place in many of our communities due to the Kingdom impact our ministry partners are having not only in Virginia, but all across the globe. God has truly blessed us with some great ministry partners who are on fire for Jesus.  Our ministry partners are impacting the lives of multiple generations of Virginia Baptists for such a time as this.

Finally, I’m getting the sense from many of our churches and leaders that they are overjoyed about how their respective congregations are springing back to life. Recovery efforts from the pandemic have drained us all, but it is great to see the resilience that is nestled deep within who we are as Virginia Baptists. Ministries are budding. Mission Teams are chirping. Small groups are shining bright. These are all signs of springtime being in the air. I am so happy to see the spirit of God springing up all over our Commonwealth. It reminds me of what Jesus said in John 4:14, that “He has put within us, a well of spring water, that springs up into everlasting life.”

What a way to start the spring.