Autumn is calling… Aspen leaves are falling…
What is calling you?

~Ramona McGonagil~

There are so many features of Fall that call us and say, “Fall is here”. Recently I have noticed an abundance of butterflies in our garden, the harvest moon, and bonfires in our backyard. Coming up, I have a visit to a pumpkin patch, apple picking, and a hayride with my family. Fall is a busy season, but it can also be fun!!

Recently I attended a conference and learned a new term, “Butterfly Mind.” The definition of a Butterfly Mind is an unsettled mind that prefers to be in constant movement or activity. The more we unpacked this idea over the week, the more I realized this “unsettled mind” is where I often find myself.

Are we listening to the leading of the Holy Spirit in all we do? One of the most effective ways to hear the Holy Spirit is to focus on God’s word. Roman’s 12:2 reads, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

As the leaves begin their graceful descent from the trees and the air turns crisp, the fall season offers a profound reminder of the Christian belief in transformation and renewal. Just as a caterpillar undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis to become a butterfly, so too can we find inspiration in the changing colors of autumn. In the Christian faith, the concept of transformation is central. It symbolizes the process of shedding old habits and embracing new ones, much like the leaves shedding their green hue to reveal vibrant shades of gold and red. Just as the caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly requires patience and trust, so too does our spiritual journey. “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18.

The “Butterfly Mind” theory also represents the idea that our thoughts and beliefs can evolve, much like a caterpillar into a butterfly. Just as the butterfly emerges from its cocoon with newfound beauty and grace, we too can emerge from our spiritual cocoon with a deeper understanding of our faith and a greater connection to God.

As we immerse ourselves in the beauty of fall, let us be reminded of the Christian belief in transformation and renewal. Embrace the changing seasons. Be ready to let go of the old and embrace the new, trusting that through this process, we can become more aligned with our spiritual journey. This fall, may we find inspiration in the leaves that fall gracefully to the ground, and in doing so, discover a deeper connection to our faith and the transformative power of God’s love.

The challenge is staying focused on what God is inviting us into in this life and beyond and being aware of what disintegrates us. Sin and shame, poor choices, stressful events, emotional and physical pain, trauma, death, technology, and the lack of integrative practices that can bring us peace. These things can result in restless and un-focused thoughts and the inability to hear from God or focus on what really matters to us. Unhealthy doses of depression, anxiety, or stress in our bodies can overflow to poor relationship skills or life coping skills that leave God out the equation.

What calls to us in the physical world can speak to us in the spiritual world as well. After all, God created both. Joshua 1:8 reads, “Study this book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so that you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”

Do you find yourself looking for help to get through some challenges that you have tried to tackle yourself, but you’re still stuck and want to seek professional help? We are passionate about connecting with you to help you take your first step to see how we can help.

May you be blessed in this Fall season!

In Jesus’ name, fear, anxiety, chaos, and confusion are brought to courageous strength, confident faith, clear guidance, and the knowledge of truth. May you be blessed by the gift of a sound mind from the Holy Spirit.