I was driving through the countryside today and I began to feel restless. It may have been the beautiful fall colors all over the trees as summer escapes and winter approaches. It might have also been the fresh air rushing across my face through the open window which I have missed for the past several weeks. It could have been the muted trumpet solo over the melancholy jazz song coming through the radio. It might have been the combination of all three things.
Whatever it was, it got me thinking about making changes in my life. Not just things like getting a haircut or rearranging furniture - I mean big changes. Like moving to a different school or buying a house. That is not to say that I am unhappy with my life - I am content in every way. I love my job and feel like Letchworth is a perfect fit for me. I am very comfortable in my apartment and enjoy its proximity to my friends, my church, and the rest of my life. Despite satisfaction with the state of my life, I still experienced a growing sense of restlessness.
Where did this restlessness come from? It seems to me that changing seasons are a subtle, yet beautiful reminder that we were not made to remain stationary in life. We are forced to adapt, not just to minor circumstances and situations, but to big changes in life. We can expect and look forward to these changes knowing that God will do his handiwork to make the change beautiful. In the midst of the change it is not always easy to see the beauty. The weather has been getting colder and the days shorter. In all honesty, I did not realize so many of the leaves were changing until today. It really hit me just how much things have changed recently and how beautiful it is.
In the same way, we can expect spiritual changes to come as well. It is interesting that Scripture often refers to different phases of life as "seasons." They may sneak up on us and catch us off guard. They may come suddenly and blatantly into our lives announcing their arrival. In either case, spiritual seasons are inevitable and in their own way and time, beautiful.
As for me and my restlessness, I realize that this sensation will pass. The restlessness is not something to avoid. Neither is the complacency that will follow. In all seasons I will put my hope in Christ, acknowledging my need for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I will find joy in the seasonal changes of life and nature. Will you?
PS, thanks to Kathy Mauer for letting me use the picture she took!
