The fall season holds an undeniable charm, captivating us in a way no other season quite can. There is something special about the autumn or fall that makes it different from the rest of the seasons. The display of foliage in vibrant colors increases our appreciation of nature, and the calming ambience heightens our awareness of the present. I see fall as a transitioning time between the active sunny summer and the cold wintry winter – two extremes in the weather spectrum. Like an in-between season, I am reminded of a poem I wrote some years back titled “In-between”. In-between seasons of life (and literarily, the weather) stand as breaks to optimize for growth and renewal. We are reminded again that nothing goes on forever, and time for a reset is essential. As we enjoy the gift of a season, which God in His infinite wisdom designed to teach us the essence of transitions, here are some inherent lessons to learn from fall.
1. In the peace, in the quiet, God is near.
When we allow the Lord to slow down our pace a bit in the place of prayer and studying the word of God, our spirit is rekindled. We feel God’s presence even more, it seems our inner man becomes more sharpened to pick up the frequency of what God is saying to us. That makes sense, there are less distractions with the in-betweens. In the in-between, the Lord sits with us as we learn of Him – He never leaves in any season, fallen leaves or not.
2. Times are fleeting but embrace the changes.
The fact that fall seems to be in the passage of two stark seasons makes it quite significant. With it comes the apparent changes all around us, which signifies the impermanence of everything. The leaves that once were green and buoyant change colors, and in no time, trees are bare. As hard as it can be, we come to understand nothing lasts forever, thus we need to cherish every moment of the now that’s been gifted to us. In the mundane, in the routine, find joy and live in gratitude.
3. Mindful heart, stay awake, stay aware.
With the vivid aura of autumn, we tend to connect with the world around us, I hope that is true of us. A sense of mindfulness is enhanced, which is great in many ways. Staying in the now opens up our hearts to the works of God in and around us. We are aware of the possibilities of what God can do. We enjoy this beautiful gift of life – the simple joy of being you. Let God work in you to release burdens and to let go, that will bring clarity, this way, you travel light. I am reminded of this scripture…“For in Him we live and move and have our being” Acts 17:28 (NIV).
4. Growth as we know it does not always come pretty.
Before the beautiful spring, there has to be a fall and a winter. We are reminded yet again of the prerequisites for growth in terms of making sacrifices, stripping off, laying bare, adapting, and all metamorphosis. These are not always fun but necessary….old before new…“Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” John 12:24 (NIV). The process of growth is sometimes undesirable but a crucible for development, and we need to find the anchor that keeps our soul…He is steadfast and sure while the billows row (CPWI Hymnal #564).
Today’s culture glorifies being busy and a full calendar becomes an idol as we strive to stay on top of things (don’t feel bad, I’m guilty of this too). Maybe we need to take a few steps back to reorient ourselves to find meaningful structure in the chaos. Make fall and every other season a good time to reflect on the faithfulness of God, appreciate the wonders of His work, and spend time learning at His feet.
Here’s what I’ve been up to this fall 2024 (for future reference):
– Catching up with my bible plan for the year.
– Listening to the messages of Elizabeth Elliot1 more often, you can find those on YT.
– Revisiting the Sunset Through Listen playlist2 by Phil Wickham.
– Make more soups with Peppersoup recipes from my home country.
– Relaxing more, and enjoying the moments with my family. Hugging my son tighter, watching him play, and watching him feed himself, no one talks about the satisfaction!
– Staying dedicated to my 10K steps in a day. It gets harder as the temperature drops. The enthusiasm to take walks outside is dwindling. The goal is to try to close up my exercise rings and meet up with my strength training (we gotta strengthen those cores!).
– Taking some days off to enjoy Thanksgiving!
1(76) The Elisabeth Elliot Foundation – YouTube
Special note: Would you give your life to Jesus Christ? He is the way, the truth and the life. If yes, please pray the prayers below:
Lord Jesus, thank you for your death and resurrection for the salvation of my soul. Please forgive all my sins. I choose you today to follow and to obey. May your love and the holy spirit lead and guide my purpose for your glory. Thank you, my Lord and savior. Amen!
Grace and blessings,
–Olushola.
