Heather Tharp:

What does October mean to you? To me, October means change. It means we are moving into the fall season; the weather is changing along with the colors of the leaves on the trees in our yards, along the city streets, and through the canyon. The temperature is changing, too. The mornings are cool, as if demanding us to feel the crisp breath of the air. The days are generally pleasant and warm, only to slowly cool again, urging us to seek a cozy sweater or blanket. Then, of course, we will probably see sleet or snow, and the sweater will no longer be sufficient!

Within a 12 hour period, the temperature may change 30 to 40 degrees in Colorado, so we must leave the house prepared for what the day may bring. Do you feel like you change that much over the course of any given day? Perhaps you start out feeling fresh and ready to tackle the day and by the noon hour, you soak up whatever rays you can while eating your lunch outside in an effort to seize the moment in its entirety. But, by the late afternoon, your energy wanes and you are ready to curl up under that cozy blanket. Maybe you begin to wonder, or worry, what tomorrow will bring- sun or snow? Peace or tribulation?

The consistency of the earth’s seasons are reflections of its Maker and the steadiness of His character. What does October look like for you? Are you moving into a new season in your life? Perhaps you are now an empty nester, faced with the opportunity to rediscover who you are. Perhaps you see your friends moving forward in life at a faster pace than you are, maybe even leaving you behind. Perhaps you see your kids growing up faster than you would like, pulling away from you and your guidance and leaning into their peers and outside social relationships.

James 1:2-4 tells us that: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” This season you are in may seem challenging, these moments may be trials, but they are also personal opportunities for growth and  perseverance.

Sending you strength and blessings during this season!

Through every season of our lives, God is faithful to sustain us through His never ending, all sufficient love. No change is bigger than He can bring us through!