I saw a meme stating, “Summer clocked out right at the end of its shift.”

Ain’t that the truth!

Fall is officially here in New England; the trees have begun shedding their leaves.

However, leaves aren’t the only thing falling…

For the past year, I’ve been experiencing some falling away, personally and in ministry.

This falling away has caused me sadness, tears, and a longing for things to stay the same. However, we are told there is a time and a season for everything under the sun. No matter the season we’re in, change is imminent.

We tend to take it personally when things fall away in our lives. Whether it be marriage, a friendship, family, ministry, or an opportunity. At times we might even see it as a form of rejection or a sign of unworthiness. We can, however, treat each season with purpose.

An article I read about Foliage says this.

“Dropping its leaves in the Fall helps a tree conserve water and energy. This helps the tree focus its energy on root growth. This helps trees survive harsh Winter weather. Thus, it will have strength for the extraordinary burst when spring comes.”

Might the falling away in our lives be deepening our roots?

Making us stronger in preparation for things to come.

What if this falling away is displaying what we are truly made of?

Revealing our weaknesses, our vulnerabilities, or our strength.

What if this falling away makes us braver than we dared to be.

More creative and resourceful than we imagined.

Sometimes fluff is confused with fullness, but stripped bare, the truth is revealed. 

Indeed, some seasons are more challenging than others, filled with tragedy than triumph. During difficulties, the now can seem like an eternity. But no matter the season, or how long it lasts, it will end. Because – now is not forever.

This Summer, we basked in the sun, wore sundresses and flip-flops, and enjoyed cookouts and patio dining. We splashed about at the beach in swimsuits.   We planted flowers, licked ice cream, and went to the park.   Back then, the hot days of Summer seemed to stretch on forever, but now, those days seem so far away.

Be In The Now

Now we say hello to the crispness of Fall.

And you know what? I’m gonna try and embrace it!

It’s time to break out the boots, scarves, and hoodies.   Try a pumpkin spice latte or go apple picking and eat apple cider donuts. 

Maybe light that cinnamon-scented candle while sipping on some hot chocolate with whip cream.  

We can marvel at the beauty of the Foliage, attend a fall festival, or shout for our favorite football team.  (Go Patriots!)

There will be some aspects of this season that we won’t enjoy. I love the vibrancy of the leaves, but not the cleaning up once they fall to the ground. However, that’s all part of the process. 

A card I received from a purchase stated, Be In The Now.    Society is not about relishing the moment; it’s about rushing on to the next thing. We can become anxious to move to the next season or the next chapter that we aren’t taking advantage of now.

Being in the now is living in the moment.

It might be joy or sadness.

Sunshine or rain.

Healing or hurting.

Gaining or losing.

Or a bit of everything.

Being in the now means we are grateful for today, even as we are hopeful for tomorrow.

Sufficient moisture, heat, and coolness are needed in the summer to make for a vibrant fall. Similarly, our attitude about our now will affect our next. 

Through it all, remember, now is not forever. Seasons change. 

When things are falling away, it makes room for a deeper connection. It’s creating space for more.

It will be uncomfortable, might hurt, and even cause anger sometimes. 

But, the gaps will be filled – What’s bare will flourish again! 

And – look out for those Indian Summer days – they are opportunities to gather what’s needed before the following season.  

Walk purposely through your season –

With,

The Water I Give

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28