There’s a parking lot around the corner from our house that marks the changing of the seasons by the stands that pop up… In spring, bedding plants and vegetables offered up for sale, which phase out at deep discount just in time for the fireworks display. The lot is empty now, but come late September, the pumpkins and mums will appear. And before you know it, Christmas trees and fresh pine garlands. A few dormant winter months and it begins all over again come spring.

I’ve always had a fondness for seasons. The familiar rhythms of one time of year to the next. There’s a reassuring comfort to it. I’m a sentimental keeper of traditions. I’ll take the routine over the unknown any day. Currently, I find myself in a wonderfully predictable groove of life. A welcome respite after a stretch of years of drastic change and losses. Even so, I’ve found myself sub-consciously bracing for something to disrupt the peace I currently know. Which is why these words were such a comforting reminder and challenge to my heart :

“God’s care and compassion for those in Christ will NEVER change. He will always provide for us — even though it may seem to be in the very nick of time. What’s more, His change in our lives may be exactly what we need. We have a tendency to hold on to old remedies, old patterns, old methods of coping. But the Lord says, ‘See, I am doing a new thing!’ Life changes and God’s methods of provision change, but His care for us and commitment to us never will.” — Joni Eareckson Tada

I don’t know where these words find you today. Maybe you are in need of that provision, wondering if and when the fix will come? Maybe you’re tempted to cling to old methods, old patterns? Maybe you are simply feeling empty, needy, alone. God is with you, watching over you always. Never doubt it for a second. There are new mercies every morning. Maybe they are going to be found in places or ways you don’t expect. Keep looking. Keep hoping. Perhaps the change you are so dreading is just the thing God intends to use to breathe grace into your life.

Take heart. There is One who is with you who will never change. And He will be with you to the end.

“I bring my fears and uncertainties to you and leave them at Your feet.”