“That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.”
Romans 1:12
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Have you felt it? There has been a coolness and a dryness in the air for the last several days. We’ve been sleeping with the windows open—always a joy.
Walking Finn, I’ve noticed the first visible sign of autumn. The Ginkgo leaves have begun to show a tinge of yellow. Ginkgos know about the change of seasons. They are the oldest plant species alive today. There are fossils of them from hundreds of millions of years ago that are exactly like their leaves of today. I wouldn’t argue with that kind of long-acquired knowledge.
Remember that Jesus was a leaf-watcher, and he tells us to pay attention to the changing seasons. “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” (Luke 21:29-31)
What things might you be seeing that suggest a change of season is near? I’m not thinking about temperature and leaves. What things might you be seeing—things taking place—as Jesus said, that suggest that the kingdom of God is near? Or maybe just a little nearer than it was before?
Is there something in the air—a promise, a hope, an expectation? Is there something in the air that might be calling you to pay more attention? To look more closely at the changing season of your life? Of your family? Of your community? If so, how might you respond?
The big change of season for me is that this will be my final post on this “Weekly Encouragement” blog. I pray it has brought you some blessings. It has certainly been a blessing for me each week to set aside time to think, pray, write, and share my perceptions of the Spirit at work among us.
St. Paul’s interim season has come to an end. It has been a fruitful season of growth and discovery. Now, St. Paul’s new season is here, one of living into ministry with Charlie. May this new season bring you all new joys, new challenges, and new graces.
God’s Peace,
The Rev. Bill Queen
bqueen@stpaulsrva.org