A Time for All Things

 

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 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 kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 ESV).

 

Once again I am compelled to write a devotional with a topic I am anticipating, rather than experiencing first-now at this time. At this writing, I am still a couple of days away from leaving for the mountains. As you may be aware this is the time of the year when the peak fall colors will be showing in the various trees of the Smoky Mountains. The picture I have attached is a picture I took in October, 2024. As Mary and I were traveling through the mountains we found a spot where we could pull off the road and stretch our legs a bit, while I also took a few photos of the colors. I am not a professional photographer by any means, though it is hard to deny the beauty captured in this shot. The yellows, oranges, and reds were vibrant as the trees began to prepare for winter. Looking at this photo and the anticipation of seeing it again brought to our reading today. There is a time for all things.

 

Seasons are not only a matter of weather. They also describe the chapters and circumstances we move through in life. I’ve noticed that the turning of the year often coincides with changes in our lives. Personally, I eagerly anticipate the shift from summer to fall. Most of the outdoor activities I enjoy take place at this time of the year. Though in the case of this year’s football season for Texas A&M, I must admit it has been a bit disappointing. Life’s transitions are similar. Some are exciting and welcome, while others are harder. Ecclesiastes uses seasonal language to describe this very reality. As the “Preacher” — the book’s main voice — puts it, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, ESV).

 

However, we must remember that all of these “times” are appointed, not an accident. The word translated “season” in our reading carries the idea of an appointed time. That’s an encouraging truth when we’re walking through a season we would not have chosen for ourselves. The season you are currently experiencing may feel accidental or unexpected, but it is not outside of God’s knowledge or care. It may surprise you, but it has not surprised Him.

 

Today is a good day, regardless of the circumstances, to remember the power of God, who loves each of us and works all things toward our good!