We find many reasons to celebrate, this time of year, including our country’s freedom, which transpired in the 1700s. God’s magnificent creation is still another blessing worthy of celebration, with its summertime beauty and bounty. So let’s celebrate!
ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair
Celebrate the reason for the season
Living in the Northwoods, especially this time of year, is a blessing. And this year the prolific growth of butter-yellow dandelions, lavender lupines, even golden trefoil, and a host of other plants has added special beauty to our region. No wonder people flock to the area each summer.
Actually, each season brings its own beauty and interest. Maple leaves change hue from pale green to a deeper shade as spring turns into summer. Come autumn, they turn into a gorgeous variety of reds and golds. Then, as winter settles in, the lovely maple branches, now devoid of leaves, sport a coat of fluffy snow. Yes, even our coldest time of year is a cause to celebrate.
I find it interesting to study one particular tree from season to season: its changes in color, shape, and shadow. Trees bring pleasure to our senses. In fact, when it comes to all of nature in the North, there is nothing dull or boring about it.
Each season brings its own reward, its uniqueness, worthy of celebration. In fact, all cultures celebrate their seasons in various ways. During certain seasons the Israelites celebrated their identity in God. Even the prophecy about Jesus coming to earth specified He would appear at a certain time. You know the rest of the story, how each year we celebrate His birth during our winter season which we call Christmas.
A pastor told about a picture his young daughter drew, framing it with these words: "Jesus is the Reason for the Season." Most of us probably have heard that phrase. The girl’s drawing, however, did not show a manger scene, nor an outdoor, winter scene, but a four-part portrayal of all the seasons. She was merely showing that we celebrate Jesus in every season.
In Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus spoke to His disciples as He prepared to leave the earth. He gave them their final instructions—to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you …” And His last words were meant to encourage them, even as they are meant for us today—"And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." His final words are worthy of celebration.
Lord, help us to remember each day that You are unchanging, a God for all seasons. Even as the seasonal changes in nature bring us joy, Your infinite love, faithfulness, and goodness give us joy unspeakable and are available to us forever. May we always take joy in You, our Redeemer and our Friend. Amen.
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