Lately, gentle reminders have been making their way into my days of the faithfulness of God. I need these reminders, these little white flags of the need for surrender. Subtle sign-posts that the battle is not mine to fight. Nor is it any of ours to fight. Across the globe this faithfulness extends to all of God’s children at every moment of every day.
Each and every one of us hefts our mule-packs of troubles. For some, the burdens are so heavy their knees are buckling under the weight of it all. Others move along slowly but steadily though their eyes are downward, cautious of their steps. And yet, for others, it’s a lighter pack of inconveniences, annoying but manageable.
One thing is certain, seasons of change will come. There is always evidence of this reality. At times, it’s dramatically noticeable. The days grow short with darkness and the chill of isolation can sink into the bones. Or perhaps it just a chilly breeze that comes through and as you lean in the wind brings tears to your eyes and you dip your head trying to ward it off hoping it will pass soon and your vision will clear. And then there are those times of welcome relief that lifts the oppressive air that has hovered over you, like a smog laden valley, freeing your lungs and clearing your head.
Seasons of change are good. They remind us that we are alive. Every season is a cycle of life in process. Out of the dark hibernation comes the pruned back new life of a clearer perspective, fresh growth shooting forth the glory that is to come.
These seasons are divinely designed, each one arriving on the wings of wisdom. This wisdom is pure, merciful and ripe with the sweetness of good fruit. It is personal, individual and plump with love.
So, I will try to pay attention to these sign-posts up ahead and lift my shaky white flag in remembrance of all the markers of seasons past faithfulness of God. Whether the burdens are light or heavy I have this promise on which to rest my pack:
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT