Green blends into yellow and orange as the plants prepare for their next adventure. Bright golden hues paint the mountains. The air starts to cool in the evenings. Not to be bested, the sunsets turn up the drama with magenta skies. The change in our seasons emerges. Ever the more subtle in the desert, but still present. Fall is upon us. 

Ecclesiastes chapter 3 reminds us that there is a time or a season for everything. Three “times” that struck me amongst many others in the passage include, “a time to embrace,” “a time to speak,” and “a time to love,” We can take inspiration from these times mentioned as we transition into this fall season.  Ask yourself,  what does the fall season represent for you? What times are God calling you to be a part of? And what new challenges can you embrace during this fall season?

I’ve always loved fall for a variety of reasons, but one that is especially meaningful to me is how people come together in the fall. Get-togethers of all sorts happen. Many places offer fall festivals, fall sports are in full swing, and friendsgivings occur.  For me, fall is a time for gathering, for enjoying, and for building community together. In fact, we have so many great events here at church, gather with us this October and invite friends or make new ones. You can even challenge yourself to have a conversation with someone “new-to-you” at the church this fall season, as I am going to do. Maybe you have seen someone who caught your attention on a Sunday morning, but the timing wasn’t right to introduce yourself. Now is the time. Put on your best smile, shine the light Jesus gave you, and get out there. Can’t wait to see you and your new friends at the next event on campus this fall season.