Thursday, September 24, 2015

Autumn Gifts

Nature's Grace

In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous.”
Aristotle

I looked out my front door yesterday to see a fat, gray squirrel sitting in a pot of lamb's ear, eating cat food with both hands. Little jaws working away, he didn't drop his fistful and flee even when I opened the door. Apparently, I run a tropical spa for squirrels here—they come to relax and refill. Audacious creatures!

Fall is my favorite time of year, especially here in the deep South. When the mornings become cool, we sigh with relief that our long, hot-sauna season is coming to an end. This weekend we will see a spectacular lunar event—the harvest moon, a super moon (closest to the earth), and a lunar eclipse all on Sunday evening. We should be able to see this display from pretty much anywhere in the the U.S.

Nature, with its enduring restorative powers, is the surest, most reliable sign of God's grace to me. As stewards, we have a responsibility not only to care for the natural world, but to appreciate it. In order to receive its gifts, one must first be aware of them. This is a good day to plan your weekend. Besides the usual round of football games, make time to get outside and commune with creation. The moon will throw something far better than a touchdown. Like the squirrel in my potted plant, you will be rewarded by grace.

                                                        In the Spirit,

                                                             Jane

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