I was reminded of Solomon’s statement during a recent trip through the Midwest. Sheri and I, along with our daughter Tori, retraced our steps from our respective childhood homes in Colorado and Missouri, to our former pastorate in Kansas. In just nine days we saw people, visited places, and relived events that took us through several seasons of life.
We usually remember things as they were. This trip was a reminder that time marches on. As in nature, one season gives way to another. While we can reflect on the past, we cannot hold on to yesterday. Life is a forward journey with new adventures and experiences on the horizon.
Let’s face it, transitions can be difficult. Sometimes it’s hard to let go and move on. In my opinion, one of the great features of heaven will be never having to say goodbye. But in this life we say goodbye to people and places, careers and seasons.
The apostle Paul was no stranger to transitions. His calling was such that he never stayed in one place for long. To the Philippians Paul revealed his philosophy, “Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal…” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul approached life with a forward posture.
What about those who transition out of a highly successful season of life only to feel they have been sidelined? The Bible says every season of life can be productive for those who serve the Lord (Psalm 1:3). Remember, Caleb accomplished his greatest achievement at the age of eighty-five (Joshua 14:10-13). We get over the past by embracing the new assignment and giving ourselves to it completely.
While the seasons of life move quickly, God remains the same (Psalm 102:27). The God who was faithfully present through every season is with you now. His goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life, and will eventually lead you into the house of the Lord.
“To everything there is a season.” That is a fact of life. So embrace the new season. Make the most of it. And live each day looking forward to the bright future you have in Christ.
Pastor Todd Weston