We lovers of Autumn have a sixth sense about us, a knowing when that first revelation of summerâs end has arrived.
It is felt on the skin in that barely discernable nip and twinge of air, charged with the slightest chill; awareness that the atmosphere has changed just a smidge.
Autumnâs scent is unique and mischievous. Earthy and deep; wise, pungent, and bold in the way brown leaf tips, restless trees, and fading flowers bend and drop to the Earth, daring the one watching to stop them; to impede the ancient progress of a slow, yet lovely descent into quiet and rest.
That spritely spurt of wind, which tosses and dances fallen leaves and finished flowers round and round, is delightful. What is it about piling up crispy, browned leaves then dashing them about, flinging them from orderly piles into random and untamed flurries of color? A new beginning; a tossing and mixing up of the old, lazy routine into something new; a plan to disrupt the status quo and wait patiently through the winter, as that plan takes form and substance. Somehow the chaos of it is lovely and energizing, part of the ritual. It is one more wild streak before the settling and simmering of autumn moves on to the mystery and silent brooding of winter.
The discerning observer will witness Natureâs response to the shift from the indolent, dog days of summer to autumnâs call to let go. The song of quiet purpose and intention, as Mother Earth whispers itâs time to fold in, cozy up, and allow rest to perform its miracles and the deep, sweet slumber of winter to wait in the wings.
There is something inspiring and invigorating in this call to purposeful letting go, an anticipation. Is it the definitive color changes and that unmatched fall scent in the air that feels like a new beginning? Is it the crisp sensation of fall air as one breathes it in?
Welcome Autumn! Come and show off your colors and dare us to think about the dead or dying places that we need to let fall; not with sadness or fear; but with anticipation that a season of silent regrouping, where new life starts to bud, will soon break free with the coming of spring. Itâs coming, and it will be glorious!
Thankfulness. There’s something beautiful and healing about being thankful, and not just with the big ticket things. But with deeply personal, gentle surprises and delights that you know Jesus planned just for you…
*the way the breeze brushes your skin *the coziness of a coffee shop on a blustery day *the whisper of His voice through a splashing stream *the gentle purr of a fluffy white cat sleeping across your shoulders *the peace that falls on you as you sit in the Redwoods *the quiet beauty of a summer night stargazing…
When I recognize that these little things are hand picked by Jesus to bring me joy, smiles, and contentment it makes them all the more precious and special…just for me simply because He loves me. He loves you, too.
Have you ever felt like you need to slow down and just breathe?
The Divine Series is for the moments when you need to feel Godâs arms wrapping you up in His presence.
Heâs there…
on a hike through the Redwoods
as you sip your morning coffee
in the chatter of a mountain stream
in a whispered prayer
when you need to remember that you are not alone
Through poetry, short stories, Scripture, and reflections inspired by nature, these devotionals give you space to relax and experience God’s presence in the beauty of everyday life.
If this speaks to your heart, I invite you to take a look at the Divine Series and see where the journey takes you. Perhaps one of these books will become a much-loved companion for your own journey with God.
in dreams
in divinely planned connections with another
in the quiet beauty of an alpine meadow
on the beach as waves crash & toss
in a moments of deep prayer
in the early morning hours on the patio
in the pages of His word
Have you ever felt like you need to slow down and just breathe?
