Autumn Arrives!

 Friends,

We passed a milestone in my house this week. As I went outside to walk the dog yesterday morning, I got so chilly that I had to run inside to get a sweatshirt. Strolling around the block, it set in that fall is here in force. The clouds were grey and ominous over me, the wind cutting past my face. Yep, the warm days of summer were gone, quickly becoming a thing of the past. I don’t mean to sound bleak, because many people I know welcome the cool, crisp air. My wife is one of these fall fanatics. She relishes this time of year and you can bet that our house now contains all manner of pumpkin spice themed products.

This time is so different that what we usually get around Colorado. We are known for our long days, perfect for hiking, biking, camping and such. Those are now increasingly gone, and our inclination is steadily changing. As it grows cooler and darker, it is easier to stay inside. Our preference shifts from exercise to getting comfy under a blanket, lighting a fire and spending some time with our families or a good book. Essentially, fall is a time to be still and enjoy the quiet comfort of home.

As our potential for physical activity drops with the temperature, an opportunity for spiritual growth arises. Our inaction allows for rest, to take time away from a world where so little is sacred. In turn, we can reconnect with God and restore the holiness we lose during the week. We can remember that we have value outside of the daily grind. Everyone needs this; a haven were where we find rest, take time to let our souls just be, and, if nothing else, let our tensions be at ease.

Fall is a time where we can make such investments and find new, holy spaces. I’d like to think that our church is such a place for you all. It can be a place of life giving connection to the Divine at any time if you need it to be. But if it doesn’t quite fit the bill for you, I urge you to seek out a new sanctuary in the fall months ahead. I’m not necessarily talking a building or structure. It can be anywhere where you feel connected with God. So where could it be for you? Wherever it may be, find it! As one devotion I read the other day stated so aptly “We all need places where we can encounter the holy presence of heaven; we need community and we need solace. So whatever it takes for you to allow your soul to be at rest, find your holy place.”

And I hope your holy place has a good heat source, because I think it’s going to be a frosty winter!


Stay warm everyone!