Times and Seasons

Not long ago I looked at a picture of my mother’s headstone. There, etched in the rock, are her birth date and her death date. Snapshots of memories came to mind about what had happened in between those dates.

There are phases to life. Most parents of small children are very aware of this. These periods bring opposing kinds of experiences, ups and downs. Through them we learn much about what life is like, not just for us, but for others, too. In the midst of our passing days, God is there, molding and forming us for service here and for a life beyond time.

Important to our times is the business God has given which keeps us busy. What shall occupy us in the next year of our life? What shall we contribute to God, to others and to the world in the days of this coming year? In the midst of it all may we have ample reason to rejoice and to grow in understanding and compassion towards others and the world around us.

We thank you, God, for the rich variety of life you provide, for the work and activities through which we can give of ourselves to others and the world. Amen. — JW-H