“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”
(Ecclesiastes 3:1)
The seasons are changing again. Although we’re technically still in summer until September 21st, things are shifting. Temperatures are cooler than earlier in the summer, especially in the evenings. The days are getting shorter. The light is different and even the sounds we hear are changing, like the prevalence of the chirp and “trill” of the crickets. Children and young people have returned to school. Labor Day weekend is over, and the traffic around town is starting to thin out a bit. It is quieter. The osprey are getting ready to leave. Dogs are allowed back on the beaches. Some of us may grieve the gradual loss of the energy, excitement and activity of summer, others are eager for the coming of autumn.
Joy and I experienced another type of change of season with the recent death of our dog Bailey. The house feels different. We’re learning new routines. Adjustments are being made with this new season of our lives now upon us. Others in our congregation are also entering new seasons in their lives, with their own experiences of loss, recent moves, unexpected news from doctors, the birth of children (or grandchildren or great-grandchildren), new work opportunities, the start of a different hobby or volunteer service, or the beginning of a new friendship. The seasons of our lives change like the seasons of nature. Sometimes these season changes are welcome. At other times, they are not. Regardless, however, of the season we’re in, we can hold onto precious memories from past seasons and be open to the gifts waiting to be discovered in the new season upon us. In addition, we believe that God is with us in every season of our lives, so we know that all will be well.
Fall is different than the summer on Cape Cod, but it too is a beautiful and special time of year. While the beach services this summer were well attended and fun, it will be nice for the entire congregation to be together again starting September 14th. The choir will start singing during worship on that date too. We begin a new program year on September 21st with Rally Day and something special for everyone. New opportunities for additional meaningful ministry are emerging and can come to fruition this fall. A new season is upon us with many wonderful gifts waiting for us to enjoy. May we all continue to be grateful for what has been, for what is, and for all that is yet to be.
Blessings,
Pastor John
