On Spring: A Reflection for the Vernal Equinox (2025)
The Spring Equinox 2025 will take place on March 20th.
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As the days lengthen and the earth awakens, the arrival of the spring equinox marks a significant turning point in the year. It is a time of balance—equal night and day—before we step fully into the season of light, warmth, and abundance. But beyond the shifting patterns of the sun, spring is a deeply spiritual season, reminding us of God’s design, His rhythms of creation, and the promise of renewal found in Scripture. The spring equinox is also known as the first day of spring!
Note, the spring equinox is happening in the Northern Hemisphere (which includes all of mainland United States) in March. Our Southern Hemisphere friends are celebrating the beginning of autumn at this time.
What is the Spring Equinox?
The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring. It is the time of year when there is an equal amount of daylight as there is hours in the night. This is due to the sun crossing the celestial equator. It typically falls around March 20-21 in the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical event signals an arrival of spring, a season of renewal, birth, and awakening in both the natural world and our spiritual lives. It is also referred to as the vernal equinox. Vernal meaning fresh or new. It marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the summer solstice, which is period of time where longer days lead to the growth and abundance of summer!
I always look forward to the earlier sunrises and later sunsets. The lengthening of days is fun to observe even right after the winter solstice!
Abib: The Beginning of Months
In the biblical calendar, spring is the true beginning of the year. The month of Abib (Aviv)—meaning “ear of grain” or “green ears” of corn—is the first month of the ecclesiastical year (Exodus 12:2). It is during this time that life emerges, plants begin to bud, and the world is renewed.
Exodus 13:4 reminds us,You are going out in the month of Abib.
This period, marked by the equinox, signals a time of new beginnings. Just as Israel stepped into a new life, freed from Egypt, we are invited into renewal—both spiritually and physically—as we emerge from the dormancy of winter.
In the Gregorian Calendar, the one that most of the world uses today, this time marks the second quarter of the calendar year as divided into 12 months (though not exactly as the winter solstice arrives in December, not January). Our current calendar was generated in 1582 to help align the seasons with festivities, especially Easter which always falls in the springtime. We calculate Easter as falling on the full moon after the vernal (spring) equinox. Whether that accurately aligns with Scripture is debated, but it’s a time for reflection and celebration nonetheless.
What Happens at the Spring Equinox?
At the equinox, the sun rises precisely in the east and sets precisely in the west, creating nearly equal hours of daylight and darkness across the globe. It marks a shift from the cold dormancy of winter into a season of increasing light, warmth, and fertility. The sun is crossing the earth’s equator and warmer weather is on the horizon. The tilt of the earth is how we get our seasons. At this time, the sun’s rays are perpendicular to the earth’s axis. The end of the season happens as the summer solstice arrives in June.
Phenology: Watching the Signs of Spring
One of the most profound ways to experience the start of spring is by observing phenology, the study of nature’s seasonal rhythms. Unlike human-made calendars, nature follows God’s divine order, responding to light, warmth, and rain. In my part of the world, I watch for the early signs of seasonal changes:
- Skunks begin mating in February, a reminder that new life is on the way (we may not see them, but we can smell them!).
- Birds become more vocal, searching for mates and nesting sites. Our birdhouse outside the front door becomes a hub of activity as they prepare for new life.
- It’s a season for birth. I see this heavily in the milk and egg production from my neighboring farms. Cows give birth, and their milk becomes rich and golden as they nourish their young. Chickens and other birds lay eggs, and the color of spring is upon us!
- The first flowers emerge— crocuses and snowdrops (to name a few), followed by daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, and irises. Each bloom tells a story of resurrection, a reminder of the beauty of God’s timing.
Observing these changes through a phenology journal can be a meaningful way to connect with God’s natural rhythms and appreciate His handiwork.
Balance and Renewal
The equinox, meaning “equal night,” is a moment of perfect balance between darkness and light. This mirrors the balance God calls us to maintain—between work and rest, giving and receiving, fasting and feasting. It is a season of cleansing, both physically and spiritually. The paradox and polarity found in nature is a deep interest of mine. I’m sure the nature lovers will nerd out with me on this!
For Practical Purposes
Here are some practices that I enjoy during this time of year.
Fasting
A time to cleanse the body and spirit, aligning with the biblical practice of preparing for renewal. For Christians, this is the time of Lent, which is a fasting practice adopted by the Catholic Church from Ash Wednesday to Easter. It is a reflection of the 40 days that Jesus spent in the wilderness fasting and a time of shedding ourselves to receive the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection on as celebrated on Easter.
Spring Cleaning
Removing physical clutter reflects the inner cleansing we undergo in Christ. Plus it’s a nice reminder to clean the vents, wash the rugs, and all other things that fall by the wayside in daily life. It feels like a renewal to declutter and cleanse our physical space.
Planting Seeds
A tangible way to participate in new life and anticipate a future harvest, both physically and spiritually.
Setting Intentions
Taking time to reflect and set goals, aligning our hearts with God’s purpose for the season ahead.
Connecting with Nature
Observing the beauty of God’s creation, spending time outdoors, and praising Him for the cycles of life.
Deep Breathing & Prayer
Allowing fresh air to fill our lungs as a reminder of the breath of life God gives us.
Keeping a Phenology Journal
Noting the signs of the season as a way to track God’s timing and provision.
The beginning of a new season is always a great time for reflection and contemplation.
Here are some quick answers to a few FAQ’s:
Is the Spring Equinox Always on March 21?
Not always. The equinox dates can vary slightly between March 19-21, depending on the year and the Earth’s orbit around the sun. This variation is due to leap years and other astronomical factors.
What Does the Spring Equinox Have to Do with Jesus?
Spring symbolizes rebirth and resurrection, themes central to the story of Jesus Christ. As the world awakens from winter, we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection at Easter, which often aligns closely with the equinox. Just as nature emerges from darkness into light, Jesus’ triumph over death brings new life to all who believe in Him.
What is the Difference Between the Spring Solstice and the Spring Equinox?
There is no spring solstice—the term “solstice” refers to the longest day of the year and shortest day of the year, which occur in summer and winter respectively. The spring equinox, by contrast, is about balance—equal night and day. There is a summer solstice in June (end of spring and start of summer), a winter solstice in December (end of fall and start of winter) and an Autumn equinox or Fall Equinox in September (end of summer and start of fall) in the Northern Hemisphere. Each of these marks the first day of the new season. So this year, March 20th marks the start of the spring season.
What is the Spiritual Significance of the Spring Equinox?
The equinox represents renewal, balance, and the promise of life. It is a reminder that God’s creation follows divine order, moving from darkness into light, just as Jesus leads us from death into life. It is a season for spiritual cleansing, fasting, and preparing for new growth—both in nature and within ourselves.
How is Spring Related to the Coming of Jesus?
Spring is a season of expectation and fulfillment. Just as we wait for the first buds of green to break through the soil, humanity waited for the Messiah. Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection all align with spring festivals—Passover, Lent, and Easter—pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises.
What Does the Bible Say About the Spring Equinox?
While the Bible does not specifically mention the equinox, it does establish spring as the beginning of the year (Exodus 12:2). Many biblical events align with the changing of seasons, emphasizing renewal, resurrection, and the importance of recognizing God’s timing in all things.
Did Jesus Rise on the Spring Equinox?
Not exactly, but His resurrection often aligns closely with the equinox. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the equinox, meaning the two events are closely related. The resurrection of Christ—the ultimate renewal of life—coincides with the season of rebirth.
What is the Connection Between Easter and Jesus?
Easter is the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, fulfilling God’s promise of salvation. It is directly connected to Passover, which commemorates Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. Just as the Israelites were freed from bondage, Jesus’ sacrifice frees us from sin, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Embracing the Spring Equinox 2025
As the length of day continues to extend, it’s important to reflect on the season to come. God made our seasonal cycles to create balance and harmony. As we step into this new season, let’s embrace the beauty of God’s creation, the call to renewal, and the invitation to walk in His rhythms. May this spring be a time of spiritual rebirth, a fresh awakening of our hearts, and a reminder of the resurrection power we have in Christ.
Behold, I am making all things new. (Revelation 21:5)
