I drove to the central part of Oregon to visit my parent this last week. We took the scenic route. It was positively beautiful. The mountain pass, the high desert and the farm land were all stunning. I was surprised to see the colors on the trees changing so soon, beings we are only at the end of August. I kept thinking, "It's too soon to see the leaves change." The changing colors are reminiscent of the season I am in right now. Changes that are coming at me at a lightning fast pace. As I brace for another son to leave for the military, I feel like I am also girding up my heart for other fluctuations. Changes I want to slow down. I am not talking about menopause or saddlebags or even wrinkles. Who wouldn’t want to stop those? No, the changes I am speaking of are the autumns of the heart. Aging I want to bring to a halt in my parents. I want to yell at the clock and say. "Just a little longer with my children." or "I need more hugs from my Mom." or "My dad has more wisdom I have yet to tap into" Yet like the leaves, my life gradually transform. And though the colors are beautiful it is inevitable they will detach from the tree and float to the ground. Leaving the tree to feel empty and gray. Knowing the coldness of winter is right around the corner. This visit to my folks was for two reasons. 1) My son is leaving for boot camp Monday and wanted to say his good byes to his grandparents. 2) My dad had a surgery for his heart. The colors of change are a painful thing. I don’t think I am ever really ready for them. And though I love new things, this experience is one that is an agonizing thrill. Seeing my children become men and women of God has been one of the most striking things to watch. Having parents that are also my friends, has been a priceless treasure. These kaleidoscopes of color have been a welcome surprise in the midst of an “early autumn“. I may not like the rapid approaching change but I can not deny the beauty of the colors.
I am comforted with the truth that the same God that watched over me when I moved out is the same God that watches over my children. I know that when my heart is unsettled and worried about the health of my parents or the well being of my children I am a prayer away from peace.
I know that these vibrant colors of change are bringing growth in my life and in my children’s life. I am highly aware that my children are called to bring change to a lost world. I am keen to the fact that my parents have imparted a blessing in our lives that have brought us to this place we are in right now.
Even though this season has been more difficult than I have ever expected I can see the harvest of abundance in the colors of change.
Isaiah 41:10 I've picked you. I haven't dropped you. 'Don't panic. I'm with you. There's no need to fear for I'm your God. I'll give you strength. I'll help you. I'll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.
Isaiah 40:11 He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
