Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - Oct/96

Contributor - Tom Torrance

Title - Give Thanks Through the Seasons

Topic - Editorial Page

Autumn is a conflict to the senses. People are busy with projects and clubs and social functions. Nature is quietly slowing down. People are making plans and getting ready for the many activities of winter (I'm not pushing the season, just making an observation, honest!). Nature is settling into its dormant time.

I am reminded of the autumns of my youth and the excitement of new school friends, new activities, and the many changes that I couldn't stop even if I had wanted to. In contrast, I now find myself more sensitive to the coming of the cold season, and I am saddened by the passing of summer.

I cheer myself up with the celebration of harvest (fresh fruits and vegetables, sweet corn, etc.), with the excitement of young people rushing off to school, and with the memories of when I was in their situation. If no one is watching, I may even kick up a pile of raked leaves, trying not to think of them as dead leaves and the dying year. Autumn is a conflict to the senses.

As the days continue to take on a chill and I close yet another window and expect the furnace to come on at any minute, I resign myself to the fact that winter is indeed coming and that there is nothing I can do to stop it. The good news is that winter will be followed by spring, which, in turn, will usher in summer, which will tumble into autumn . . . Now I am getting a ahead of myself.

At this time of year, more than any other, I am aware of the seasons and their changes. Perhaps the sharpness of scent, sound, and colour in autumn draw out my awareness of who I am, along with all of the memories that suddenly stop me in my tracks. And isn't it wonderful to be aware of the happenings and changes of the seasons.

Is it any wonder that we celebrate Thanksgiving at this time of year? There is so much to be thankful for.

Sitting in church last Sunday, I was caught up with the thrill of a thankful heart while singing a hymn called "Give Thanks." It is a beautiful piece of music and a real message of praise. It stuck in my mind, and I caught myself humming it over the next few days. It has become a favorite of mine.

When you think of Thanksgiving to mind? I think of Thanksgiving when I see the changing seasons and the many activities they cause. You see, Thanksgiving is not limited to harvest, or autumn, or October. Thanksgiving is all the time; it is in all the changes and activities. It is as certain as the chill of autumn, the cold blast of winter, the sunny warmth of summer, and the assurance of spring.

Are you as busy as I am at this time of year? Take a few extra minutes to include God in all of your activities, and give thanks to the Creator of all the seasons.

There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3: 1.

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