READ: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. (v. 1)

The seasons of nature change from spring to summer to fall to winter. Each season brings its own unique weather patterns, challenges, and opportunities.

We also transition through changing seasons of life and natural life cycles. It’s true for crops in the fields, children as they grow into adulthood, churches that develop from newly planted to established, and businesses that adapt to a changing environment.

The end of a season can be challenging or painful. Some find it difficult to see the leaves fall from trees, the fields emptied of their crops, and the daylight shorten in the fall. There are many challenging transitions in life too: watching your youngest child graduate from school and leave your home, seeing a church decline as it ages, retiring from regular employment, or caring for elderly parents.

Christians can celebrate God’s faithfulness and presence in the midst of changing seasons and life cycles. He promises in Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” How do you need to hear this promise in your life as you face the end of a season?

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you for being with me to the very end of the age. Amen.