Autumn

“Memories press between the pages of my mind. Quiet thoughts come floating down and settle softly to the ground like golden autumn leaves around my feet,” are the simple words from a 1960’s song. I cannot recall the song nor the artist, but those words dawned upon me today whilst working in the garden amid the rays of warm sunshine.

Upon noticing the leaves on the apple tree decidedly turning autumnal, it dawned upon me that the colours of the leaves were changing as the tree was doing what it does naturally, preparing to preserve any last drop of goodness inside for better times ahead. A gentle breeze stirred, and a few leaves danced wistfully, landing around my feet and I thought, how fragile life can be in times of change.

The journey of life, so natural, and yet at times scary, especially for newborn babies. So tiny. So fragile. So dependant and so trusting expecting the very best in life. Some babies are so well cared for whilst others, sadly, are not.

The journey through childhood to adulthood seems natural enough, and yet, many of us struggle with all that life presents to us through unkind people and sad circumstances. We encounter pain – physical, emotional or even mental anguish.

Over the years, many people have asked me, why they should suffer so.  I was about the age of four when I asked God the same question. “Why?” I don’t fully know why. I can, however, share with you that through the many difficult times of my life, being starved and abused, surviving house fires, being abandoned, adopted then neglected, the one outstanding area of my life that has provided me with strength, love, forgiveness, understanding and grace to help other people, is my daily faithful walk with Jesus. He transformed my life in childhood, and I have followed him ever since.

I have become brave enough to admit that although life and leadership in ministry can be gruelling, sacrificial and hard work, becoming a Christian and serving God was the best decision of my life.

Memories. The gentle breeze has swept the leaves around my feet to nestle in the flower bed and I am reminded that God’s Holy Spirit has the freedom to move anywhere in my life and in the lives of others. Faith teaches me, and us, to let go of what is not necessary, and to hold fast to God’s truthful faithful promises. I have so many memories, times of trial, tribulation and victories and also many faith stories of my own that have sustained me and helped me to be a resilient follower of Jesus Christ. May your own testimony of faith also help you to remember to stand firm in the seasons of life.