Change

Early in May I was talking with a neighbour who was disappointed that the leaves of his maple tree hadn’t yet changed colour. Within a few days of our conversation we experienced three successive frosts, our first for the year.

Suddenly, my neighbour’s tree, along with thousands of others in the area, changed dramatically. They took on the oranges, reds and deep gold colours that had been missing throughout our mild autumn. 

Driving around our streets became such a delight as the trees suddenly blazed with colour and seemed to shimmer as gentle breezes stirred within the leaves.

Normally I dislike the start of the frosty winter season, but this year it brought such a complete change in the foliage that I was able to rejoice in the amazing beauty of God’s creation.

So often I’m ready to see the downside of changes occurring around me but fail to remember to thank God as I also begin to see the benefits of the changes.

This autumn I felt nurtured, as God gently showed me how all of creation works together to create beauty and wonder. It deepened my trust in him and helped me to learn to look for reasons to rejoice in everything I experience.

Prayer: Wonderful, creative God, thank you for all the blessings you shower upon us. Help us to rejoice with you in the beauty and the good in all you give us. Amen