I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)

Rejoice in all Seasons

What season is your favorite time of the year? Is it the spring months with the blooming of flowers and trees? Is it the summer with the warm weather and time to spend at the beach or in the backyard tending to a garden or cooking up some sizzling BBQ delights? Is it the cool nights and warm colors of autumn? Or is it the tranquility offered after a winter snow and being hunkered down in the warmth of your home sipping tea in front of a glowing fire place? For me, I like all seasons, but my favorite has always been autumn. It is the time when the trees change color, it becomes cooler and the winds pick up for brisk sailing without the oppressive heat.
 
This year's autumn months brings more cause for celebration. As many of you may know, Val has been looking for work for nine months. Our family income had been cut by a significant amount and money has been tight. Val began to feel her skills in teaching, biology and genetics was outdated and no longer in demand. It was hard on us all to see application after application go into the black hole of the internet, never to return. She does not know what she would have done without the gracious encouragement received from her church and immediate families. No one said having faith would be easy, but we were steadfast in our belief that we were in God's hand and he had a plan for her.
 
Last week, with the coming of fall, Val was offered a wonderful opportunity to present special science workshops for kids in local schools She has been told that she is "refreshing". Amen! Praise the Lord!
 
Whether this is your favorite time of year or not, rejoice in the Lord. As it says in the more familiar part of Philippians 4; Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
 
Was Val content? She was not content with the apparent lack of opportunity. She prayed, continued to adjust her approach and apply again and again. She was comforted to know she was in God's hands. She gave thanks for the continued support from those who know and love her. And the whole family gave thanks for the opportunity she has received. What started as a cold winter setback, turned into a warm autumn delight.

Dear heavenly Father: May we always be mindful of your grace. Thank you for giving us strength throughout all seasons. In Jesus name, Amen.

Contributed by Richard
Sunday October 3, 2010
Liturgical Year C Week 45
Sunday Gospel reading:
Lectionary 27 (Proper 22)
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost