“As long as the earth endures, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease” (Genesis 8:22)
Foggy mornings seem to be the norm this time of year. The nights here in West Virginia are becoming quite cool, but so far most days are pleasant. I like these 60s and 70s temps. (I’m not too fond of the hot and humid. I am grateful for the invention of air conditioning!) I can see the leaves dulling in color and already some yellows. I enjoy autumn and the beauty of the foliage, but it’s also the ending of other beauties. The roses and other flowers will soon succumb to the frost. The vegetable garden is already winding down. Some green beans, tomatoes and a few beets yet to harvest. The sunflowers are busy making seeds in their blossoms. Saying good-bye to my garden is always a sad little ritual for me.
In the meantime, however, I’m enjoying the September roses. They seem to be more plentiful and beautiful than the June blooms! I can still have a fresh tomato sandwich and fresh green beans. And after the fog lifts I can enjoy watching the mountains change their colors. God has given me these things to enjoy.
Then I remember those who have suffered catastrophic losses due to the hurricanes. I cannot imagine how it must feel to see your house and belongings ruined in a flood or blown away by the wind. Some have even lost loved ones. Such loss must seem unbearable. I pray for those who have lost so much and for those who have moved in to help.
Isaiah says in chapter 61 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor…to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” My prayer is that those affected by the hurricanes, after the mud and muck is cleared away and rebuilding is done, will find beauty instead of ashes (or mud as in this case). Instead of mourning there will be gladness and they’ll be clothed with praise instead of despair.
Yes, I will enjoy the changing seasons, but I do not want to forget to pray for those who won’t be enjoying it so much. As long as the earth endures there will be seasons and storms.
Dear God, my heart grieves for those who have been hurt by these recent storms. You, who spoke to Job out of the storm, speak to the hearts of the hurting. Give comfort, peace, and assurance that You are in control. Bring hope, healing, and help to those in need. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen
Amen, amen.