Xanthe Hancox
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace
Life is filled with seasons and rhythms. We experience joy and sorrow, growth and loss, beginnings and endings. Sometimes, it can be challenging to accept and navigate these different seasons. We may question why certain events happen or struggle to understand the timing of things in our lives.
Yet, in Ecclesiastes 3, one of my favourite passages in the Bible, we are reminded that every season and every activity has its appointed time. There is a divine order and purpose to the different seasons we encounter. We may not always understand or appreciate them in the moment, but God is sovereign over every season of our lives.
In times of grief, God offers comfort and healing. In times of struggle, he gives us strength and guidance. In times of joy, he rejoices with us. And in times of uncertainty, he grants us wisdom and peace.
Let us learn to embrace the seasons of life, trusting that God is at work in each one. As we journey through different experiences, let us seek his wisdom to discern the appropriate response and action for each season. May we find comfort and assurance in knowing that God holds the timing and purpose of our lives in his hands.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the wisdom of Ecclesiastes. Help us to embrace the different seasons of our lives, knowing that you have a purpose and plan for each one. May we trust your perfect timing and find peace in your presence through it all. Amen.