Leaf lessons
Most of us have favorite routes that take us to and from work, church, and the grocery store. We know when to speed up and slow down, when the road curves, or where traffic backs up. No map app is needed on these trips. But during this season, I am astounded as trees shed leaves and see the new revelation of hidden gems. Structures, scenic views, a helpful business, or just a fun object seem to jump out at me.
A new season
But like a sleight of hand trick, what was once hidden by lush green leaves, new places are revealed in all their glory when autumn comes. Just a few months ago we were traveling a familiar route, knowing the basic pattern of life’s journey only to wake up one day to a new pattern unfolding. Many of us welcomed the first few days of downtime and slower pace. Then days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months. We have seen routines and patterns fade away which has exposed strengths and weaknesses. This season of COVID-19 is doing some revealing of its own.
A focus on your personal relationship with God
Christ-followers are finding new patterns in our faith journeys. Hashtags like #alonetogether, #stayathome, #quarantine, and #selfisolation are seen on billboards and across social media. For believers, we are coming to terms with the spiritual translations like #worshiponline, #zoomyouthgroup, and #registerforchurchseating. This time of isolation has put a spotlight on the time that we are spending one on one with God. We are discovering the quality of our intimate relationship with Jesus is lacking.
When the faith community, which is vital, is pulled back, what does the personal faith reveal? Is it strong, struggling, or lacking? The foundation of every believer is found throughout scripture including
“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent" John 17:3
“Or do you not realize about yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you?” 2Cor. 13:5
"These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid,”. John 14:25-27
God’s Word is the spotlight to the bare places in our spiritual life. The Spirit brings insight, wisdom, comfort, and peace in the relationship. This challenging time can bring new layers of trust and hope as we embrace the unfathomable love and grace of Jesus Christ. Just as the Autumn reveals treasures through the falling leaves, this season can bring opportunities to lean more deeply into Jesus.
Winter is coming
A set time and place to spent time in your Bible before you start each day. Remind yourself you are meeting with someone, not reading about someone. I have found the Psalms and Paul’s letters in the New Testament to carry special meaning during this season. If getting started is a struggle, ask a friend for accountability. And yes, winter is coming. The pruning may bring days of challenge as we shed those parts which do not reflect Christ. But we yield to God’s will knowing that the refining and preparation for Spring are what God has called us to. My prayer is the same as Paul’s to the Philippians!
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ,” Phil. 1:6
Allyson Clark serves as Next Generation Co-Director of Youth Ministries at the Baptist Convention of New England.