The Changing of the Seasons

Smell is one of our strongest senses. In fact, it is the sense known to be the closest link to memories. I can remember two smells that will never leave my memory…

When Katherine was born and we brought her home from the hospital, there was a very distinct smell that stuck with me. The smell of the {clean} newborn diapers that they gave us in the hospital. Katherine smelled like them. The sweet little pink knit cap that she wore home (and that she still puts on sometimes) smelled like them. Her teeny tiny “coming home” outfit smelled like them. It seemed like everything smelled like them for a short time.

I remember never wanting that smell to go away.

In fact, when we were preparing for Joshua’s arrival (our new addition), the thought of that smell came back to mind. I remember wanting to do everything I could to keep that smell for as long as I could. Call me crazy…

I guess I didn’t want to let go of that season.

When Ma passed away a few years ago, there were only a few of her possessions that I wanted to keep for myself. Things that reminded me of times with her. Old 45s that we used to dance to in the living room. I can still see her coming through the doorframe into her living room, bouncing and snapping her fingers… singing “these boots are made for walkin’…” I believe my love for music started in that very living room.

The only other things I wanted were two blankets that smelled like Ma’s house. When I was a little girl, I would lie down on my “favorite couch” with the scratchy fabric, and Ma would come and gently place one of those blankets over me. It was one of the most comfortable places I remember from childhood. I barely use those blankets now… for fear that Ma’s smell will go away.

Again, a season that I don’t want to let go of.

Change is inevitable. We lose people tragically and suddenly… or painfully and slowly. People close to us move away… or become distant to us even though they stay in the same place. Our ministry focuses change direction. Babies grow up.

When we change from one season of our lives to the next, Jesus is the One who is always there to hold us up and walk us through. Unfortunately, most of the time we focus on the here and now… and push Him to the side. We cry over the seasons that pass and the people we lose… and don’t let Him guide us through. We get angry because of painful situations (beyond our control)… and forget that He is THE Controller. We throw up our hands as if to give up… and don’t ask Him to lead.

In this life, the ONLY thing that stays the same is Jesus Christ. Do you know Him? And are you letting Him lead you and walk you through the changing of the seasons? If you are in the midst of a season change, just let go. The next season is ultimately where you need to go anyway.