Autumn is the time to see God at work in the changing seasons; it is a time that invites us to take stock. As the farmers evaluate their harvest and plan for the next crop, we might choose to reflect on God’s provision in our lives this year. Have we seen fruitfulness in relationships or projects or our faith, that we feel thankful for? Perhaps there are things that need to be laid down for a while - old habits to put into hibernation for a season?

The Bible tells us “for everything there is a season: a time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to mourn and a time to dance; a time to keep and a time to throw away.” The falling leaves are perhaps encouraging us that now might be a time to let some things go - old hurts, grudges or unforgiveness? Someone once said “Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go” (author unknown) - death necessary for life?

In our transient and unpredictable world, our instincts may be to hold on tightly to the familiar but Autumn suggests it is time for a fresh start and have no fear, there is one unchangeable that will always remain: "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” (Isaiah 40:8)