For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1, ESV)
It is the beginning of December and we received our first snowfall of the year overnight in Jersey. It was a beautiful blanket of white on the trees this morning. The white snow was contrasted by the deep blue cold sky. It was an indicator that winter has arrived. The leaves have left the trees and the fall is behind us.
I am not much of a fan of winter. I would be happy if this was the last snow of the year. I will likely spend much of the winter longing for the warm days of summer and trips to the shore. But I have lived in a cold climate long enough to realize that despairing winter will only make it more miserable.
Winter may never be my favorite season, but there is much to embrace. There are sledding and snowball fights. There is a trip into New York City to see the tree at Rockefeller Center. There is kindling a fire in the fireplace while sipping a warm beverage. There are skiing and snowmobiling. There is no end to the enjoyable activities that can take place in winter. And winter has a special unique beauty.
So many of our struggles and sorrows in life are caused by failing to transition from one season to the next. When we long for past or future seasons of life we are hindered from embracing our current season.
I am currently a father with a daughter in high school and twin boys who are in 4th grade. Much of my time and income goes into this parenting endeavor. It is a great season of life! But there are times when I have a yearning for the days without the kids at home. Barbara and I had more time as husband and wife before the kids came along. We also had more discretionary income. But I have embraced this current season in my life. I realize that my kids will live in our home for only a short time longer. I want to make the most of that time. And the way to do that comes by embracing this season of life.
We go through seasons in life. There are joys and blessings in each season. But when we become so focused on what was lost from previous seasons, we miss out on the blessings of this season. Every seasonal transition will mean loss. But every transition will also bring new experiences and blessings. Stop trying to live a different season and embrace this season where you find yourself!
The good news is that no matter what season it may be, there is one constant. Seasons change, but Jesus remains the same. He is Immanuel, God with us. He is a constant companion through every step in life. The people in our life will come and go. But our God is always present with us.
Reflection
- Are you embracing your season in life? Where do you find yourself longing for a different season? What opportunities in this season of life are you failing to take advantage of?
- How have you seen Jesus present in every season?
Prayer
Our Immanuel, thank you for your constant presence. You are God with us. Seasons come and go, but you remain with me through each. Give me the courage to embrace the opportunities of this season in which I find myself. Lead me new adventures and discoveries that are only possible at this time. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Leave a Reply