Seasonal Rhythms

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” Ecclesiastes 3:1

For many, Labor Day has a sense of finality to it. It marks the shift from summer into fall. In our family, we take out docks and pack up the cottage. Even though the routine is the same every year, we are still surprised that summer is over. The rhythmic change of seasons brings both challenges and joys.
Life is full of different seasons, some we plan, others surprise us, but each one has a purpose. The author of Ecclesiastes reminds us of that. Chapter 3 opens with a poem listing different facets of life. He includes life and death, weeping and laughing, the good and the bad, all with the understanding that “there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

With every example, we learn that each season has a rhythm and purpose. We can relate when we look at our own lives. We all experience times of sorrow and peace, of tearing down and rebuilding, because change and trouble are inevitable. But each season has a purpose because God is the master of them all. Verse 11 says “He has made everything beautiful in its time…yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

In every season God is in control and working in and through us for his purpose. Our lives are intricately woven into his eternal plan. May the truth of his presence in every season bring peace to your current circumstances.

As we launch into fall, take a moment to consider the season you are in. Maybe it is a season of change, starting a new job, returning to school or becoming empty nesters? Perhaps it is a season of waiting, for test results, clarity, or to start a family. No matter the season, God is in control and working in it. As you remember this, consider what rhythms can you establish in this season that draw you closer to God?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We thank you that even as our circumstances change you remain the same. For some of us change is easy and for others it is hard. No matter how we feel about the seasons we are in, may we find peace and strength in you, knowing that you have a purpose and are present with us. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.