A time of new beginnings
Autumn begins a new season of beauty and loveliness. Every season has its own intrinsic beauty –
The golden rod is yellow By all these lovely tokens
The corn is turning brown September days are here
The trees in apple orchards With summer’s best of weather
With fruits are hanging down And autumn’s colours of cheer!
It is a month often of good weather and golden colours. It is also the month when “normal services” are resumed – although Sunday services have not stopped throughout summer, other groups and activities have been taking a rest. This month everything recommences in church life, as also schools, colleges, universities and pre-schools do.
So it’s a month of new beginnings, challenges and opportunities. But don’t be concerned about accepting new challenges, for God is at work in everything. As was said by King David: “Wealth and honour come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power, to exalt and give strength to all.” (1 Chronicles ch. 29: v. 12).
This, then, is an ideal time to join in with something at church that you may not have been part of before. We should grab hold of all the riches God offers to us, especially riches offered to us by being part of something with our fellow Christians. It is enriching to be with others, not only in worship but at other times, too.
Don’t be afraid, for God will give you the strength to grasp new ventures. Let us, as a church family, rejoice in this time of new beginnings. “Be bold, be strong, for the Lord your God is with you”, as the song says. Don’t view new challenges as rocks on your path, but as stepping stones to walk along, with God guiding your steps.
Best wishes and blessings,
Reverend Debra