Where I live October is a transition month.
By October summer is all put away. The lawnmower sits idle in the shed, and deck chairs lean against the back of the house. Annual flowers once in full bloom now rot in compost piles, the wooden window boxes from which they came are empty, dusty, and gray.
Maple trees once afire with reds and oranges begin looking skeleton, their stick bones arching into grey skies. Mornings turn cold, and you are lucky to see the sun for half a day.
October is when we start trying to keep warm and dry. The change from fun and sun to glum highlights the difference between happiness and joy of spirit.
I have heard that the difference between the two is their source. Happiness derives from external things like merry-go-rounds, ice cream, and walks on the beach, while joy comes from an inner contentment from being known and loved.
Do you know that God loves you? That he yearns for you to invite him more deeply into your life? That he hopes to be your strength and contentment when seasons change?
Help me Lord to rest in your provision, that you know and love and care for me deeply. Help me open my life to you so I may know your joy more fully. Amen.
Throughout this Day: Take note of all the seasonal changes around you. Thank God that despite the change of seasons his love for you is everlasting.
Additional Resource: Consider checking out your local library or bookstore for the book Contentment: The Secret to a Lasting Calm by Richard Swenson.