Stillness in the Seasons

As I was out and about this weekend I noticed several surprising and (somewhat saddening) things.

1. Kohl's was already decorated with Christmas trees, ornaments, and playing Silver Bells throughout the store.
2. Hobby Lobby had all fall decorations 50% off. Not a bad deal, but the fall decor is getting pushed aside by the Christmas decor.
3. There are already Christmas commercials on TV.

I might be mistaken here, but didn't we just celebrate Halloween? And now we've already moved on to Christmas? What happened to appreciating the beauty of the changing autumn colors, the crisp fall air, and jumping in piles of leaves?

Sometimes I find myself getting so busy and stressed that when I finally lay down in bed at night I have to ask myself where another day went. How many chances did I miss today to pray, or to pass along a kind deed, just because I was busy? Did I "stop to smell the roses" as the saying goes?

I can't believe we are already to November, with the Christmas season quickly approaching (or is it already here?). I urge you this week to take some time to be still and enjoy the little things in life. Look at the beauty of the fall leaves. Watch the sun set and cast its shades of gold, red, and orange across the Earth. Read a book to your child, or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with your sweetheart. Take some time to read the bible and pray over your morning cup of coffee. The bible instructs us to be still, and I can honestly say that doesn't sound like such a bad idea. I have accepted my own challenge for the week to simply take a few minutes a day to just pause and pay attention to the world that is so quickly changing around me. I don't want to miss the important little moments because of the seemingly important upcoming deadlines.

Here is a verse for reflection as you (and I) go about this challenge:

"Be still, and know that I am God" - Psalms 46:10.

May God bless you beyond belief for taking time to stop and appreciate all that he has done for you.

Peace and love to all, Lesley.