A Season of Change
Tryphena Rhue Taylor (South Carolina, USA)





TODAY'S READING
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Changes can bring unexpected blessings.


PRAYER FOCUS
Retired teachers





For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven. - Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NRSVUE)


When I began my teaching career many years ago, I was responsible for decorating the bulletin board in the front entrance of the school. The board needed to be appealing, inspiring, and creative. It would also require a lot of time and preparation. Many times, I was unable to complete the board in one day, so I put up a sign that said, “Pardon me! I’m changing; I’m a work in progress!”

Since my retirement, I have experienced many challenges and changes in my life. I can’t do the things I used to do; at times I feel inadequate. I wonder

whether I am still able to do God’s work. Can God still use me? In this season of my life, despite my fears, I know I still need God’s pardon and grace. Yes, I am still a work in progress.

Then I think about the scripture that reads, “[God] who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6). What a comfort it is to know that God still heals, still restores, still gives us whatever we need to change from our way to God’s way!



TODAY'S PRAYER
O Lord, help us understand that change is a necessary part of life. Help us to use change in a positive way for our good and the good of others. Amen.