October 11, 2024
Have you noticed the seasons of life move and change much more quickly than the seasonal climate shifts?
Around me now, I see the trees gradually turning magnificent shades of red, orange, and yellow.
It feels slow and lovely,
and I take it all in as I drive down my tree-lined street everyday (that's my street pictured above).
It feels simple and predictable -
I know what these trees will look like in a week,
in a month, and in 6 months from now.
But life… Its seasons are not so predictable.
Ecclesiastes 7:14 (NIV), prompts me with a sizable consideration,
“When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one as well as the other.”
I don’t know what this season looks like for you.
It could be abundant and light and carefree,
and for this I celebrate with you.
But, this time in your life could also be a season of depletion,
heaviness, loss and disappointment.
It is the reality of living out Romans 12:15 (NKJV),
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
Right now there are distressing events happening across the globe.
There are natural disasters bringing life-altering circumstances.
Health diagnosis, unexpected outcomes, financial hardship, relational strain, or grief might be some of the disheartening situations in your current season.
Here is what comes to my mind…
But take heart, Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33).
This verse is easier to accept when life is at ease
with health and happiness...at least for me.
In my hard seasons, I read the middle of the verse,
“in this world, you will have tribulations,”
and I nod my head in absolute agreement.
But, when I read the words of Jesus in the first part of the verse,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.”
And then I read the last part,
“but take heart, I have overcome the world.”
I get the entire scope of walking in this world as a believer.
It won’t be easy, but we can always have hope.
Hope in Jesus.
Life can be full of challenges and heartbreak.
I know many of you reading this are in a current season of hardship.
My heart and my prayers are with you.
It’s in these moments of turbulence we must remember,
we are not alone and we are not without reprieve.
There is someone who will carry the weight and lighten our load.
Release it.
Lay it at the feet of Jesus.
He will carry your burdens.
He is taking every step next to you.
He will never leave your side.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
Holding joy and pain with you,
Katie and Kristan
P.S. If you are searching for navigation through a season of life, consider granting us the privilege of walking alongside you as your coach. Coaching is an impactful opportunity to gain clarity and attend to emotions. We would be honored to be your guide through it all.
Do you know someone who's heart is heavy today?
Share some love and forward this to them.