Early fall is my favorite time of the year. The chill in the morning air and the brilliant colors in the trees signify a gradual change of seasons. Summer is a fading memory.  Lake trips and afternoons at the pool are replaced at the Carver home by backyard bonfires, football games and Hollianne’s famous white chicken chili.

Like the seasons, change is an inevitable part of our lives.  Whether it’s our health, job situations, family structure- the only certainty in our earthly lives is that our lives will change.  It’s sort of disconcerting, isn’t it?  What’s accepted as a reality today can be gone tomorrow.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  Hebrews 13:8 We have a great promise from our Lord and Savior.  A promise of hope, forgiveness and love.  Jesus Christ is the constant in our lives.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

With change all around us, we can be comforted to know that we may always call on our Lord for comfort and strength.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.  James 1:17

The Lord knows our past, our present and- most importantly- our future.  He knows our anxieties related to change.  Best of all?  He cares about us…more than we can ever imagine.

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.  Deuteronomy 31:6

Embrace change.  Wherever it takes us- God is already there. God bless.