autumm months
O God of Creation, you have blessed us with the changing of the seasons.
As we welcome the autumn months,
may the earlier setting of the sun
remind us to take time to rest.
May the brilliant colors of the leaves
remind us of the wonder of your creation.
May the steam of our breath in the cool air
remind us that it is you who give us the breath of life.
May the harvest from the fields remind us of the abundance we have been given and the bounty we are to share with others.
May the dying of summer’s spirit remind us of your great promise that death is temporary and life is eternal.
We praise you for your goodness forever and ever.
- Author Unknown
We have just ended a long and hot summer. One of the hottest ones on record and we are grateful that the extended heat wave has ended and cooler weather has begun, in addition to opportunities for receiving badly needed earth-replenishing rain starting to increase.
As we enter the fall season, we begin a time of transition. From hot to cool(er) weather.
Normally fall is a time of harvest. Due to the extreme drought this year, some of that harvest may be limited. No matter what, let us be thankful that God watches over us and shows mercy to us, each and every day.
God guides us through all trials. This summer it was the heat, but just a short time back it was ice covering everything...and before that ‘snowmaggedon’ and days without power and sometimes warmth.
In each and every circumstance, God was watching over us. Some realized it at the time, some didn’t. He was there all the time, whether it was by helping us to endure the heat, opening up the church building to be a warming center, sending a neighbor to come check on those in need, or providing a simple bag of essential items and a Bible to those who are dealing without. God provided all.
We thank you, O God, for the kindness and mercy you show us. We pray that we never forget the love you show us through the greatest gift you could have ever provided, forgiveness, and redemption through Your Son, Jesus Christ.
YbiC,
Larry Swofford, Prayer Steward
