My Favorite Season

        Spring is a fine time to think about God. Buds are popping out on bare branches, little shoots of tulips peek through the soil. The first weeds have the audacity to squeeze between the gravel on the driveway. Yesterday’s chilly breeze has gone, and the sun shines in a clear blue sky. Spring is a time of promise, and that reminds us of God’s goodness.
        Summer is a fine time to think about God. Seeds have been planted because that’s how it is. First you plant, and take care of it, then something grows. Hot days encourage the fruit on the trees, the vegetables in the garden, and the primrose taking over the planter. The miracle of photosynthesis gets taken for granted, but it is God’s plan.
        Fall is a fine time to think about God. Those tiny seeds have grown into genuine, edible vegetables, each yielding their own seeds. The trees are heavy with fruit, ready to be picked. Sure enough, the seasons and the rainfall, the climate and the soil will get the credit, but it is God’s doing.
        Winter is a fine time to think about God. Blustery winds have plucked off the leaves in a flurry of gold and orange, red and brown. Hibernating animals do what they know to do. Snow will blanket the land, and cloudy darkness claims the day. Often it’s a picturesque season, but it serves a purpose, and that is God’s idea.

And…

        Spring is also good for us. Housecleaning and planting reminds us about God. Our lives must have a season of scrutiny, determination, and hard work, if we’re going to have something to show for it. Spring is a time to ask questions and make plans.
        Summer is good for us. It’s time to appreciate water. Changes in weather, unpredictable rains and drought can make us realize how reliant we are upon God for life and sustenance.
        Fall is good for us. If we’ve sowed good things into our own lives and into the lives of others we have reason to expect a harvest sometime. The laws of nature teach us about the ways of life and the faithfulness of God. Fall is time to take inventory and make plans.
        Winter is good for us. It slows us down, makes us appreciate warm houses and suitable transportation. The uncertainties of weather show us to trust in God.
        Yes, seasons come and go. People who are always too busy to smell the roses and look at the weeds, enjoy the peaches and admire the fluffy clouds in the sky are often neglectful of the one thing needful: be aware of the presence of God.
        Each season shows me something about God, so that’s why my favorite season always happens to be the one I’m in just now. How about you?

by Elaine Hardt ©2002