For there is a season, a time for every activity under the heaven

Ecclesiastes 3:1 NLT

In Colorado, we are blessed with four seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall.  Some days we can experience all four seasons in a few short hours!  Fall, however,  is a beautiful season of transformation. As Summer begins to fade into early sunsets and the searing heat begins to cool, the trees' green foliage give way to vibrant jewel tones of burgundy, gold, rust and bronze. Instead of sitting on the porch cooling ourselves with a tall cold glass of sweet lemonade after a dip in the pool,  we find ourselves sipping hot pumpkin spice coffee from Starbucks or sweet crushed honey crisp apple cider. We dig deep in our closets and pull out our favorite cozy sweaters,  fleece lined jackets and jeans to warm ourselves around crackling fire pits.  

This time of year, families get in their cars to visit our snow caped mountains and watch the changing Aspen leaves decorate the range. This is one way we can view the glorious works of God as our mountains and their splendor changes from lush green to hues of gold, orange and brown.  As the days grow shorter and there is a chill in the air.  We embrace changing our clocks to “fall back” one hour. This is a season of change.

The change in the season will mean a change in our schedules and lifestyles for many.  Schools are back in session for our children and for some adults.  It is also the last quarter of the year and the beginning of the Holiday Season. Celebrations and festivals to plan, family gatherings and preparations for holiday travel. The last quarter of the year can be a huge change in pace and plans. It's all about re-starting a new season. We can lose sight in the busyness of all the activities. 

During this time of change don’t miss out on some of the wonders and lessons that God has for us.  Let’s consider some of God’s wisdom that we will benefit in our lives through this season of change.

SLOW DOWN  The Fall Season invites us to slow our pace, pause, and consider the state of our hearts.  Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God.”  Just as God created the natural seasons, he also takes us through different seasons of life.

Fall is a time to evaluate our priorities that may have been altered, the distractions that may have crept in, and the areas where we need to surrender to God’s transforming power. Just as we saw trees and plants clear their branches, we must strip away anything that hinders our walk with Christ.

LET GO  The falling leaves serve as a visual parable of the process of releasing our cares to Christ.  1 Peter 5:7  “Give all of your worries and cares to God, for He cares for you.”

The Fall lesson of letting go (like the tree and its dead leaves) encourages us to release our worries, fears and pains from the past.  It’s also a time to consider what to let go of when we feel overwhelmed.  Feel free to simplify your life.  Review your calendar and minimize your commitments.  Learn to say NO. The act of letting go is a powerful way to experience God’s freedom to move forward with a lighter heart.

EMBRACE CHANGE  Fall vividly demonstrates to us that change is not just inevitable but can also be beautiful.  Isaiah 43:19  “For I am about to do something new.“ 

Maybe God has allowed change in your life that you don’t yet understand but be assured that He will navigate you through all the adjustments.  

What changes do you need to make in your life?  Do you need to spend more time in prayer and meditation or reading the scripture?  The beauty of Fall lies not only in breathtaking landscapes but also in its subtle reminder that change is an outgoing part of God’s design.

As we explore this season of change, let’s learn the wisdom it offers. It's all about re-starting a new season.  Learn to slow down, let go, and embrace change.  Step outside this October and enjoy the crispness in the air, the beauty of the colors, and the profound lessons this season brings and carries.  

Prayer

Lord, help me to know when to say yes and when to say no. Let the leaves fall in my life to make way for new growth. I am submitting my schedule and plans to you. Thank you, Lord, for caring about the most minor details of my life. I will relax in your loving embrace and will slow down for your glory; show me where to make room in my plans to make way for Your plans, Lord.

Amen.

By Rev. Ida Gice Smith

Pastor of Exodus Church, Parker, Colorado

American Baptist Churches of the Rocky Mountains