Recently the words of ‘How Great Thou Art’ written by Stuart K. Hilne have felt particularly poignant. A great reminder of the awesome wonder of creation, the balance and timing of the seasons, along with the detail, care and power displayed through nature. A place you can experience the expanse of the universe and the closeness of God.

At the time of writing this piece we’ve personally felt a mixture of emotions, especially in the last few weeks where the seasons felt as though they were happening all at once. From the joyful, safe arrival of a newborn in our family, through to a number of departures of loved ones who will be greatly missed, though filled our lives with many happy memories.

Whether you’re experiencing a feeling of ‘sunshine’ or ‘rain’ (or ‘sunshine on a rainy day’), the inner need to take action or to find rest, God has generously provided a time for everything:

   “There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens:

    a time to be born and a time to die,
    a time to plant and a time to uproot,

    a time to kill and a time to heal,
    a time to tear down and a time to build,

    a time to weep and a time to laugh,
    a time to mourn and a time to dance,

    a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,

    a time to search and a time to give up,
    a time to keep and a time to throw away,

    a time to tear and a time to mend,
    a time to be silent and a time to speak,

    a time to love and a time to hate,
    a time for war and a time for peace”. 

    (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

Arrivals and departures mark a passing of time. Both events being the start of a new chapter (or even a new book) in their own way. All the best parts of the previous chapters cherished in our hearts and fondly remembered and retold until one day we meet again.

In loving memory of John Price, Beryl Clifford and Elsie Shears.