Autumn Joy

Ladies, you know how much I love the fall season here in New England. I love the crisp, cool air and the colorful foliage and the promise of a new school year. But, obviously, this year feels so different. Thankfully, the pandemic can’t steal the beauty of the fall foliage from us, but I fear that it may steal some of our joy about this season of new beginnings.

Will I be able to keep my job if my kids can’t go to school?

And if they do go to school in person, will they be safe?

How do we socialize as the weather gets colder and we can’t have backyard gatherings?

Now, more than ever before, we need to commiserate with our “mama sisters” at Mom to Mom, but we know that many of your groups have been put on hold because we can’t gather together in church buildings or in homes. Mom to Mom Ministries is providing resources to enable online teaching and virtual gatherings during this unusual season in life.

I know I am certainly looking forward to the start of our local Mom to Mom program this year. I can’t wait to “meet” the young moms in my group as we gather for our first video conference session. It won’t feel the same as when we were able to gather around a table and chat over hot cups of coffee, but I am moving forward with eager anticipation to see how God will meet us this year. 

Though our circumstances have changed, our God has not changed. He is still in control, which is evidenced by the natural beauty that dazzles my eyes when I look outside this fall. The trees are still captivating us with colorful splendor and I am especially enjoying the abundant sedum plants in my backyard right now.

I think the name of this particular plant says it all. It is called “Sedum Autumn Joy.” Yes, there is joy to be experienced this fall. Bring it on, God. Bring it on.