We are almost a quarter of the way through the year and spring is around the corner.

Days are getting longer and lighter and, hopefully, our spirits are rising. Many of us might consider some spring cleaning.

In my spiritual life, I too need to do some spring cleaning. Like many of you, things have changed in my life over the years, yet I believe that it is my relationship with God that has carried me through.

As we are approaching Easter, we are moving into Lent, the 40-day period when we are encouraged to spend time in preparation to greet the risen Lord Jesus at Easter.

Whilst some spend the time doing penance through the discipline of giving something up, it can also be a time when we can examine our lives and bring them before God.

Jesus modelled this for us when he spent 40 days in the desert in preparation for his ministry.

For us to grow and develop in our spiritual lives, deepening our trust in God and growing our relationship with him, we need to plant some seeds.

I intend to look closely at how I use my time. Where am I wasting it on inconsequential activities, particularly when they divert me from prayer and meditation, or working for the good of others?

I will also look for positive things I can do, not just during this time of preparation but for the future.

Spring brings new life in creation, a period of reflection can bring new life into our relationship with God.

John Edwards, Holy Family Church, Heath End