Fall is a great time of year. The cool, crisp air is a welcome relief from the heat of summer. The leaves begin to change in color, forming beautiful landscapes for the eye to see...the color fades quickly, the leaves turn brown and fall. New leaves will not grow on the tree until the warmth of spring comes.
I believe there's more to enjoy from these events of fall. Sure, the colors are enjoyable, but we can learn something about our lives from trees. These trees are entering a time of dormancy. Because of the indirect rays of the sun during the winter months, keeping the leaves to produce food for the tree is more trouble than it's worth for the tree. (I know biologists are probably cringing at this explanation) It seems like we never drop our leaves these days... there's always something to do, somewhere to go, someone to meet.... we never stop to focus on ourselves. We never take the time to see how we're doing and if we have enough "in the tank" to get us through this season of life. We never take time to be rejuvenated by a time of rest and inward focus. We're victims of our culture- our culture sees a day off as a waste...a lunch break as a lack of productivity, and a relaxing as a lack of motivation. It's not easy to break the cycle. Most of us have been trained well. But, if we're able to "drop our leaves" for a while, we can connect with the God that brings rest and joy.
There are always going to be things to do. There will always be those things on our list that "have to" be done. When will taking care of yourself make it to your list? How are you taking time out to care for and examine yourself and your relationship with the God that sustains?
" 'Say this: :God, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!' That's right - he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you - under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm." Psalm 91: 1b-4
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