Embrace the Changing Seasons

(original message sent via email 8/21/23)

My apologies about sending this email today instead of on Monday. I have had technical difficulties with the podcast this week. I finally decided to let it go and send this email your way. My hope is to have everything all set for the podcast next week.  Until then, I pray this message below blesses you on your journey to live from the inside out...
 

As I stood pumping gas earlier this week I noticed the leaves were changing on this tree, and some leaves had even fallen.

It’s only August.

As I looked at the leaves that had changed and fallen I thought, “I'm not ready for this yet.”

I realized this wasn’t the first time I thought this that day.

Earlier in the day I took Kate, Gavin and Matt for shopping for their school supplies. On our way there I realized it was the last time we'd be school shopping all together, as Kate is entering her senior year in High School.

“I'm not ready for this yet,” I thought as I watched the three of them pick out their supplies, as they laughed and annoyed each other through the process. I was in disbelief that Kate will be headed off to college next year.

Time is so precious and it’s not something we get to slow down, or stop.

As I looked back at the tree, I was reminded that things will happen in God’s timing, not mine. I can resist this truth, or pray to embrace it. I’m praying to embrace this truth and choose to stop trying to slow down time, and enjoy the moments beside my loved ones instead.

I share this with you today in case you too find that time seems to be slipping away.

I invite you to join me to…

pause. breathe. pray.™

May we do our best to be present beside our loves ones and trust that God’s timing is better than our own; even when that means embracing the seasons of life change, in nature, and in our homes.

With love and hope,

Shawn

P.S. For more encouragement this week, listen to the latest  PODCAST EPISODE HERE!

There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven
- Ecclesiastes 3:1