A time for every purpose: fall reflections

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven” – Ecclesiastes 3:1.

So it is with this column.

On Sept. 23 this year, one day after fall officially began, I posted this verse from Ecclesiastes as the cover photo of my Facebook page, along with a closeup of several autumn-tinged leaves. Then just recently, the verse appeared in my email, in a daily devotional from The Cross radio station, which broadcasts on 88.7 from Monroe.

So it seems fitting that in this very season, I share these reflections with you.

The message’s author, Bri Dunn, one of The Cross on-air personalities, wrote of how fall always draws her in – the cooler air, cozy sweaters and cheering on her favorite football team. Yet, she confessed, as soon as she settles into the season, she finds herself looking ahead, dreaming of Christmas lights and spring’s warmer weather, before winter even begins.

What she has come to realize with this cycle of rushing through seasons is that she often does the same with her life, constantly focusing on what’s next. But, she wondered, what if this season, whether in nature or life, is exactly where she is meant to be?

Her conclusion? God calls us to embrace today, finding joy and purpose in the present moment.

Even though I don’t personally know Bri, I want to thank her. Her message came at just the right time (imagine that) for me to dwell on such thoughts. In a world that’s always moving at a fast pace, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, always looking forward to the next big thing. Yet there’s a serene beauty in savoring the present moment, in embracing the season we are in, no matter how fleeting it may seem.

This reflection has been a gentle reminder for me to slow down and appreciate the now. As the leaves transform into brilliant hues and the air grows crisp, I’m reminded that every part of the sequence has its own charm and lessons to offer. Whether it’s the vibrant energy of spring, the warm embrace of summer, the cozy allure of autumn or the quiet peace of winter, each season has its unique blessings.

The truth is, life is happening now. God is working now, at this very minute, even if we sometimes fail to notice.

Fall, if we let it, can be one of those rare times when we can somehow sense God’s nudging us to slow down. The changing leaves and cooler days invite us to savor the beauty of the moment. They remind us that life has its own rhythm, and if we’re too focused on what’s ahead, we’ll miss the quiet wonders unfolding right in front of us.

When we rush ahead, trying to skip through the calendar to reach what we think is better, we’re essentially saying the current season isn’t enough. But God’s plan is perfect. He has placed us here, right now, for a reason, and that reason is worth our attention.

So this fall, I’m trying to learn to cherish the present, to find joy in the everyday moments and to trust that this is exactly where I am meant to be. It’s a lesson that’s not always easy to grasp, but one that’s incredibly rewarding. So here’s to embracing the present, finding beauty in the now and living each day with gratitude.

Let’s make today a time to pause, breathe in the cool air, and recognize that this season, with its unique purpose, is truly a gift.
xxx