Read: Ecclesiastes 3:1–14
Yesterday I purchased an airline ticket to send my firstborn child
to college. I’m surprised the keyboard on my computer still functions,
given the waterworks my eyes unleashed on it during the flight selection
process. I have so enjoyed my eighteen years of daily life with her
that I am saddened by the prospect of her departure. Yet I wouldn’t rob
her of the opportunity that lies ahead simply because I’ll miss her. At
this juncture in her life, it is fitting for her to embark on a new
journey to discover adulthood and explore another part of the country.
As this season of my parenting draws to a close, another one begins. It will undoubtedly bring both new challenges and new delights. Solomon, Israel’s third king, wrote that God appoints “a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). We humans have little control over the events of our lives—whether we view those events as favorable or not. But God, in His mighty power, makes “everything beautiful in its time” (v. 11).
In seasons of heartache, we can trust God to bring something good from them in time. Our comforts and joys may come and go, but God’s works “will endure forever” (v. 14). We may not relish every season—some are quite painful—yet He can bring beauty to them all.
As this season of my parenting draws to a close, another one begins. It will undoubtedly bring both new challenges and new delights. Solomon, Israel’s third king, wrote that God appoints “a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). We humans have little control over the events of our lives—whether we view those events as favorable or not. But God, in His mighty power, makes “everything beautiful in its time” (v. 11).
In seasons of heartache, we can trust God to bring something good from them in time. Our comforts and joys may come and go, but God’s works “will endure forever” (v. 14). We may not relish every season—some are quite painful—yet He can bring beauty to them all.
Father, You have permitted this season in my life. Help me to be content in the midst of it, and to recognize Your power and might are at work.
It is so difficult when children go off to college! They are such precious gifts from God and no matter how many sleepless nights, panicked homework sessions and sassy backtalks they give you, they are still such amazing gifts. For those who still have little ones, enjoy each day, it goes so fast.
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ReplyDeleteBeauty from All Seasons:
Even though I am just starting out in the journey that is parenthood, this fall Branson started preschool. Seeing him with his little backpack, and coming home with new friends and so much excitement was bitter sweet. He needs school like we need him to go to school if you know what I am saying, but also this is the start of him growing up faster than we thought possible. This is a transitional season where God will grow us both in so many ways, which is exciting and scary, and will require much prayer and resting in the Lord’s embrace to trust that He knows the plan for Branson, and desires to a relationship with him.
Mike Jones
Where does the time go? Parenting is a process of nurture and letting go. I'm glad we don't have to do it on our own.
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