oCTOBER THOUGHTS FROM OUR PASTOR

My favorite season of the year is fall. I was born on the first day of fall
(September 22nd) and I've always felt a keen association with fall. A cool fall day around 60 degrees with plenty of sunshine and the slightest breeze just feels like music to my soul. There's so much about fall to love -- the beautiful foliage, the cool nights that make for restful sleep, the return of Packers football, and of course, all the delicious fall foods like ciders, pies, and soups. Plus, fall is a signal that beloved holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are right around the corner. One of the problems with fall is that it always seems too brief for me. It seems like the only season that doesn't linger. There are things about all the other seasons that I love as well, but I always find myself ready for them to go. Right around the end of August, I'm tired of summer; around the beginning of May, I'm tired of spring; and about halfway through January, I'm tired of winter. But I never find myself saying that about fall. I always find myself at the end of October thinking, "Is fall done already? It feels like the leaves just turned -- now they're all on the ground and the winds are growing colder." But maybe that is one of the bittersweet gifts and lessons of fall -- life is about change. As much as we may want to hold on to what is, the seasons (especially fall) teach us that change is coming and we must learn to adapt. Someone once said that the fleeting nature of time is what helps us to appreciate it. We wouldn't value our days as much if we knew we had an infinite supply. There's a deep truth in that perspective. Psalm 90:12 says, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." I think a wise heart is a heart that is grateful. Take time this day to appreciate the gifts and blessings that are all around you. Life is a fleeting and precious gift -- don't waste another moment on ingratitude or bitterness. Embrace the joy and peace of God's treasures abundantly given to you in love. Give thanks for the blessings of each moment.

Pastor Jason