The huge potted mums was lying on it's side again. Though larger than most, the plastic planter was no match for the strong winds and rain that were normal for this time of the year. Most of the beautiful red, yellow and orange leaves that had majestically crowned the tree tops were now lying in a bronze colored carpet on the ground. There weren't enough leaves for the neighboring kids to frolick in but there was certainly enough to send my husband off to the local hardware store for a rake and recycled yard bags. Yes, what was just a few weeks ago considered fall splendor, was now work. But it had to be done, especially as the winter season loomed ominously around the corner. Lovely Autumn, or fall, the transitional season. A time for harvest and God's beautiful gift of color as summer changes over to winter. A time when days get shorter and the weather is cooler. The preparatory time for nature to get ready for it's icy slumber. Hmmm......Winter!! Loved by some and tolerated by most. More often now than before, I'm seeing how beautiful a wintery scenery can be, especially after a fresh snow fall. Still winter remains my least favorite season. Grey, icy and cold. Dark, dull and dreary. The sun, though ever present, is furthest away. As some of nature lay dead or dormant, we find living life in the winter season can be most challenging. Why does it linger so!! So we look forward to Spring!! The start of new life as the weather gets warmer, flowers bloom and the trees start to bud. The sun draws nearer, shortening the nights and brightening the days, bringing nature out from hibernation. The season of renewal and rebirth, spring restores our hope in what was lost and what is to come. Our spirit feels lighter, thanks mostly to the hormonal changes we experience from more exposure to sunlight. Sure there will be lots of rain but it is so necessary for the farmers planting and for growth. Glorious Summer...one of my favorites!
I've always been a warm weather gal. Capris, t-shirts and sandals. Ice cream, ice capps and picnics in the park. Sun! sun! sun! It is bright and cheery and almost carefree. Green grass, squealing children and backyard barbecues, who doesn't want to enjoy longer days and beach front vacations? Ecclesiastes 3:1 "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the heaven." All four seasons created by God for His plan and purpose, just as the seasons of our lives. Yet, unlike the climatic seasons that are experienced corporately, the seasons in our lives are very much personalized. We are all at differing stages in life and in our faith. Yet God in His sovereignty knows exactly what we need and knows the exact time to draw us to Him and transform us for His purpose. Each season comes with it's own unique set of gifts and challenges through which we learn the importance to not only adapt but embrace change. What season are you in? Is there transition in your life...leaving things behind and moving forward? When the strong Fall winds and rain attempt to topple you over, allow the even stronger arms of almighty God to keep you rightly positioned. Are you surrounded by the gloom of Winter? Does it seem dark and dreary...experiencing difficulties that go on and on? Remember, though the Son may seem far away, He is ever present. Rest in Him. Can you feel the Master's shears? Do not lose the Spring in your steps. Allow Him to prune the dead and unwanted things from your life. It will direct new spiritual growth and increase your fruitfulness, bringing joy to the Father. Or are you enjoying the warmth of Summer? Life feels good and all is well. Enjoy the blessings of God but don't forget to pray for those in another season. No matter what season you are in, know that you are loved, know that you are precious, know that you are His. Know that God's ultimate goal is to make you more like Him. Original images from pixabay.com
2 Comments
SIRLANA DAVID
11/1/2016 12:38:20 pm
I ABSOLUTELY LOVEEEE THIS....AGAIN...on this ok day I am having, as I read this blog I was transferred from my desk at work to my favourite place in Canada with some of my favourite people...experiencing all the seasons. Your messages always hit home as I can thoroughly relate to same and yet they are so enjoyable to read...Keep them coming Sis.
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Lureta Ector
11/1/2016 07:22:59 pm
Hi Lan
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