ini Message

One of the great things about the fall is the change in colour all over the landscape. The sudden shift from a multitudes of greens to a wild rainbow of fall colours is always a joy to the eye. People drive for miles to enjoy this spectacular show. In some ways this joy is an unusual reaction for us to have. When we think about it, it is the visible signal of the death of summer and the season of growth. It heralds the onset of winter with its cold days and (if we are lucky?) blankets of white snow. Winter driving hazards are just around the corner with ice encrusted car windows. You would think we would be less enthusiastic about seeing the onset of fall. Many of us are not comfortable with the whole death thing in the midst of life, yet many are able to enjoy these fall days of transitions, as they take long walks in crisp clear air enjoying the relief from hot humid summer days.

It is good to be able to enjoy each season of the year for what it is. It is just as good to be able to enjoy all the seasons of our life just as much. There is a spring of life when we are young and just starting out. There is a summer, when we reach our maturity and contribute to our community from the richness of our developed talents. There is also a fall. A time when our energies may be declining but our wisdom has inclined. When we learn to work smarter, and are more clear about what is truly important and what is not. When we can see more fully the rich colour and diversity of life without as much judgement or prejudice. When we have learned to appreciate the good things we have knowing full well that they won't last forever.

Having lived spring, summer and fall days well, prepares us to enter into the approaching winter with peace and contentment. We have learned that there is indeed a season for everything and a time for all things under heaven. If we have done our homework we will have learned that the circle of life must come to completion and that in the end it is a circle that keeps rolling and spinning at different levels. Our Kids and Grand-kids carry on here while we look forward to the resurrection to eternal life after the darkness of winter has closed in on us. We know that a new spring will await us and it is with joy that we can look forward to that day, while we still enjoy and make the most of the days we have here.

So lets all enjoy the many changes of the fall season as it speaks to us of the rich diversity of God's creation and plan. As we listen to change and permanence dancing together in the wind and sun, lets join in on the dance of life as we are able, knowing that with God, in Jesus, all will be well. For he is the Lord, the God of all things, and in him we can find the key to inner peace there.

Rev. Tijs, at St. Giles Presbyterian Church.