Let spring speak
by Jane Mueller
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For I will not be so bold as to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me (Romans 15:18a).
Read Romans 15:14–24
The Apostle Paul had every reason to boast. His life was full of achievement – he travelled widely, built communities and poured himself into helping others grow. He mentored young leaders, wrote letters that shaped the early church and endured persecution for the sake of the gospel. Yet, he writes, ‘I will not be so bold as to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me.’ He steps back and gives credit not to himself, but to Christ working through him.
In a world that often tells us to prove our worth through success, status or self-promotion, Paul’s words cut through with quiet humility. He doesn’t deny the value of his efforts, but he shifts the spotlight. He speaks with gratitude, not pride.
Paul’s example invites us to look beyond ourselves – not just upward to Christ, but outward to the world around us.
As spring breaks through the chill of winter, creation itself seems to echo that humility. Martin Luther wrote, ‘Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime.’ New life emerges quietly, with early blossoms, delicate leaves and green shoots pushing through cold soil. Spring doesn’t declare its achievements or seek applause. It simply unfolds in all its radiance, pointing to something greater. Similarly, often the most meaningful parts of our lives aren’t the ones we announce or display. They are the quiet, grace-filled moments that shape us from the inside out.
Take a moment today to notice the good that has flowed through you – not just what you’ve achieved, but what grace has made possible. A kind word offered at the right time. A relationship healed. A decision that brought peace. These moments don’t need to be loud to be powerful.
Boasting only in Christ isn’t about denying our gifts. It’s about recognising the deeper source behind them. It’s about humility and gratitude, and pointing to the goodness that flows through us, not just from us.
Gracious God, help me let go of the need to prove myself. Remind me that the good in my life isn’t mine alone – it’s a gift from you. Work through me in quiet, surprising ways. Shape me into someone who reflects your goodness so clearly that others catch a glimpse of you, not me. Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.
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