Autumn's Hope

As the last of autumn's splendors fade, formerly colourful leaves now blanket the earth, days shorten and the sweet smell of decay takes to the the air. The cool breeze whispers, "Winter is coming."

In these parts, snow has already made a brief appearance.

On the surface, late autumn can be a depressing season. Yet, autumn is also the season for hope. As the earth prepares for winter's rest, the decaying plant life readies the soil for new life in the spring.

For me, these days remind me of the dark days following Jesus's death on the cross. Imagine seeing your beloved leader dead on a cross, like a common criminal. It is natural to question if what He said was really true. Jesus promised new life. Jesus promised resurrection. Yet in the destruction of death, these dreams seem to be whisked away. How depressing for those early believers.

On Easter Sunday, Jesus defeated death, by rising from the dead. Early believers then recognized that Jesus had to die in order that we may have hope.

As leaves tumble from their trees, leaving them more barren each day, there remains for each of us a hope for spring, for brighter days and for continued life in Christ. The leaves must fall so that we will have new life when the earth warms again in the spring.

Take a little time to appreciate autumn's real splendor. You may be surprised by the hope that rises in you.