"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autmn and spring rains." James 5:7
Every season of the year has its own beauty. There are sights, sounds, tastes and smells that belong to that time alone. They cannot be (truly) replicated or created and are a pleasure that can leave a lasting place in our hearts and minds. For many, autumn is the favorite of all seasons. For the sports fan, football, basketball and hockey are all available to the hearts content on every level. (The exception of the NBA in this year is an unfortunate one, but we'll avoid that particular sore spot) For the artist, creation explodes in a momentary masterpiece of red, yellow and brown that can be absolutely stunning. It seems that most people in Michigan have something to look forward to in this relatively agreed upon favorite time of year.
In Autumn, the earth prepares for a rest and the final living memories of the year are truly the most stunning. It seems that from September until January time will fly by with the excitement of the seasons, the gathering of families, and the eventual introspective view of another year passing into the new. For the past several years, there has been a growing uncertainty about economics, politics and world events in January. However, in the fall everyone seems to realize that we have survived another year, and it is time to celebrate and relish that fact. The season should be tasted, tested and thoroughly enjoyed as best as God equips us to do.
Detroit has had a much needed boost that seems to have brought a sigh of relief. The three major automobile companies seem solidified in their direction as tricky negotiations have nearly passed by. The Detroit Lions are considered to be one of the top teams in the NFL with an incredible 5 - 2 start to the season. The Detroit Red Wings are off to another playoff bound start. It seems that cars and sports have again brought joy to our metro areas and even a time of escape for many who need it. The colors have been spectacular, though heavy rains have thinned many of the trees down to their limbs. By all accounts, this is a fall that has been much needed by our population. People have found that the joy they are tasting is the freshest and most potent that they have known in some time. Many have been literally starved for the peace that comes from a moment in which they are content merely to be.
In the creation account (Genesis) it is said that God rested on the 7th day. Critics of Christianity have used this to point out a possible weakness. In other words, why would God need to rest if He is truly omnipotent and omnipresent? In Mark 2:27 we find a great piece of insight as Christ remarks, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." This blessed gift of rest and reflection is a gift from our Father, and is a critical part of our well-being. The activity itself is almost secondary to the overall benefit of being restored and filling in the joy that can be so easily robbed in our everyday affairs. Wherever we find this, on a trail, at a game, at an orchard, (so long as it does not conflict with our values) we will find God waiting to surprise us with the gift of much needed rest.
The glories of autumn are unique and fleeting. They can be a great blessing if you will take advantage of the gift of rest our heavenly Father wants to bless you with. Take time to truly enjoy the many tastes, sights and sounds that this year's fall will bring to the Detroit area.
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