The Standard September 6, 2025
Some of us have a bit more pep in our step as we enjoy several days in a row of cooler temperatures, the start of the football season and school, as well as the promise of pumpkin-flavored anything. For some it is an exciting new beginning, a fresh chapter in learning or teaching. For others who preferred having the more laid-back schedule that their summers provided, there might be stress associated with lesson plans, studying, or organizing events and activities. The change in weather might be the only thing that those not affected by the school calendars or sports schedules notice.
The author of Ecclesiastes, most likely King Solomon, speaks of the seasons of life. He wrestles with what can seem like, apart from God, the relative insignificance of our existence. The Teacher writes emotionally of the ups and downs that could cause us to despair. With God’s help, however, we can see the cycles of life as divinely ordered. There are appointed and various times for each of us to face both joys and sorrows. Lord willing, we will find purpose in whatever work God has given us to do.
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, 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
For those in the midst of sadness or stress, God is the ultimate comforter and burden-taker. We are not alone; Jesus empathizes with our challenges. “At that time Jesus declared, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’” Matthew 11:25-30
celiastone 