Inspire

Seasons

As winter officially begins, many of us find ourselves already longing for warmer days (guilty!). We think ahead to summer holidays, sunshine and time spent outdoors. It can be easy to wish away the cold mornings and shorter days as we wait for what comes next.

But life is happening right now.

God has created our world with seasons, each one bringing its own beauty and purpose. Winter reminds us to slow down, to notice the things we often rush past and to appreciate the gifts God has placed before us today.

Sometimes children can be eager to move on to the next exciting thing - a birthday, a camp, the school holidays or the next school year. As adults, we can do the same. We find ourselves waiting for the weekend, the holidays or a future milestone. Yet when we are always looking ahead, we risk missing the blessings of the present moment.

Scripture reminds us:

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24)

Notice that the verse says this day. Not tomorrow. Not next term. Not next season. God invites us to rejoice in the day He has given us right now.

This winter, may we encourage our children (and ourselves) to be fully present in the season we are in. Winter invites us to slow down, spend more time together and appreciate the simple gifts around us: the warmth of a hot drink, a cosy classroom, a rainy day, a kind conversation or a shared laugh with a friend. May we enjoy the laughter in the classroom, the friendships in the playground, the warmth of a shared meal and the simple joys of everyday life. 

Every season is a gift from God. When we live with grateful hearts, we discover that there is beauty to be found, even in the waiting (and even in winter).

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of every season. Help us not to rush ahead or wish away the days You have given us. Teach us to notice Your blessings around us, to be grateful for today, and to live each day with joy and purpose. Amen.

Submitted by Karly Bartlett