Looking out the kitchen window on Easter morning, I discover four cardinals perched in the branches of the ornamental dogwood tree.
Though spring has arrived, the tree still holds onto its winter dress – woody branches and nothing more. Its buds, leaves and blooms have not yet begun to take form.
The four birds dance from branch to branch in the barren tree. Their bright red feathers bring the tree to life, providing a glimpse of the blooms soon to come.
The cardinals dance on the wood, as if painting the tree red.
Then, as quickly as they appeared, together they take flight and ascend skyward.
Blood on the cross begets the resurrection.