I know it’s not summer but…
Dear church,
I know it's not summer yet but as I sit here, sipping on my iced coffee and basking in the warm sunshine, I can't help but reflect on the beauty of the changing seasons. It’s a mirage though, isn’t it? It’s definitely not summer yet here in Roseburg, but the recent sunny weather certainly has my mind thinking about summer. Here’s a quick list of things I’m looking forward to this summer: meeting my baby girl face to face (so excited!), having our family visit this summer, Graffiti Weekend, golfing, grilling, and the simpler things like driving with the windows down!
As I mentioned, summer isn’t here yet and we are still in our beautiful spring weather. But as spring inevitably gives way to summer and brings with it longer days, warmer nights, and a whole new beauty we’ve longed to see for months, there’s something deeply spiritual about this transition that speaks to our souls. As I was journaling last week I thought about the ways that the upcoming changing seasons remind me of our Creator God:
Changing Seasons remind me about Renewal and Growth
In the tapestry of nature, spring emerges as a time of vibrant renewal and growth. After the barrenness of winter, life bursts forth in a kaleidoscope of colors, as blossoms adorn trees and fields come alive with the buzz of new beginnings. It's a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness to bringing life out of death and beauty out of ashes. Just as the earth experiences seasons of renewal, our spiritual lives can also undergo periods of refreshing and growth. In Psalm chapter 1, we're likened to trees planted by streams of water, bearing fruit in season. The interesting thing about changing seasons is that we are not meant to reap a harvest in every season. There’s a specific season for reaping a harvest. Oftentimes, we want God to give us a harvest in every season of life – when that’s just not the way life works. Oftentimes, we want fruit before we’ve developed roots. This time of year gives me pause to recognize that as much as I would like summer to appear now – it’s just not time for summer. When we allow God to work in our hearts, His Spirit breathes new life into our souls, revitalizing our faith and igniting our passion for Him in the season we are in. Life will present itself with ups and downs. As we go through them, let’s embrace the Holy Spirit’s invitation to grow deeper in our relationship with God. Let's lean into His grace, allowing Him to cultivate in us the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Changing Seasons remind me about Faithfulness and Consistency
Despite the ever-changing seasons, there's a comforting constancy in the faithfulness of God, isn’t there?. I was working on some music for an upcoming Sunday and I was practicing the chords and music, the lyrics jumped off the page.
‘From the rising sun to the setting same
I will praise your name
Great is your faithfulness
To me.’ ~ (Promises, Maverick City)
The above lyrics, based on Psalm 136, remind us that He orchestrates the rhythm of the season with precision and purpose. He is intimately involved in the seasons of our lives.
In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we're reminded that there's a time for every activity under heaven. Whether we're basking in the warmth of summer or weathering the storms of life's winters, God remains steadfast and unchanging. His promises never fail, His love never wavers, and His presence is a steady anchor in the midst of life's uncertainties.
As we navigate the ebb and flow of life, we take comfort in the unchanging character of our Heavenly Father. We anchor our souls in His promises, trusting that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6).
Changing Seasons remind me of the Beauty in Diversity
Living in Southern Oregon, we see the evidence of the seasons. The landscape transforms from the vibrant hues of spring to the sun-kissed splendor of summer, we're reminded of the breathtaking diversity of God's creation. Each season offers its own unique beauty and wonder, reflecting the infinite creativity and glory of our Creator. Speaking of our Creator, could you imagine having a front-row seat to the creation of the world marked in the first chapter of Genesis? What a sight that would have been!
In Genesis 1:31, we read that God looked over all He had made, and saw that it was very good. From the delicate petals of a flower to the majestic mountains that rise to meet the sky, every aspect of creation bears witness to the beauty and diversity of God's handiwork. Just as no two seasons are exactly alike, each of us is fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God, with our own special gifts and purpose (Psalm 139:14). As we celebrate the beauty of diversity in creation, we also embrace the richness of diversity within the body of Christ. We honor and celebrate our differences, recognizing that we are all united in our shared identity as beloved children of God.
Summer isn’t here.
Yet.
But it’s coming!
And as we patiently await summer’s arrival and bid farewell to springlet's take a moment to pause and reflect on the profound truths that changing seasons reveal about our loving Heavenly Father. May we embrace the journey with open hearts, trusting in the goodness and faithfulness of the One who holds all things in His hands.
Cheers to the changing seasons, and to the God who walks with us every step of the way!
Blessings,
Pastor Daniel
