Embrace the Season
By Jen Ingram
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1
I love how God uses the natural rhythm of the seasons in our lives and how beautifully He shows up in each one of them. Spring, summer, fall, and winter—each has its own beauty.
We are on the cusp of spring, which is a funny time of year here in the Pacific Northwest. The daffodils are blooming, and there is still snow mixed in with the rain. Yet the daylight begins to stretch a little longer, the temperature slowly warms, and creation all around us wakes up and blooms. Spring brings rebirth and new life—a reawakening of all creation. There is something special about seeing color return to the trees and bushes and flowers in every shade imaginable. It is truly beautiful to observe.
Our lives ebb and flow like the seasons. There are times when we feel hurried and stressed, and other times when life slows and brings a sense of peace. As parents, life is unpredictable and ever-changing—and let’s be honest, always entertaining. Children are an incredible blessing, but they are also our most challenging assignments.
When I was a young mother, I often heard older women say, “The days are long, but the years are short.” At the time, that wasn’t very helpful. But with time and perspective, I now understand what they were trying to communicate. It’s not just encouragement that this stage won’t last forever—it’s the reality that this stage will pass quickly, just like the ones that follow. Children grow up fast, and before you know it, they are grown and your relationship with them changes.
What I wish had been communicated to me more often was this: I see you, Mom. Yes, this is a tough season—but don’t wish it away. Lean into it. Be present in it. Find the joy within it. Childhood is sacred. It is precious and fleeting. We have such a short amount of time with our kids. I recently read that we will know our children longer as adults than we will as children—and that is true.
My encouragement to you, in whatever season you find yourselves, is to be present in this season of your child’s life. This is your opportunity to encourage, empower, and disciple your children in their faith, their purpose, and their gifts. Some days will feel longer than others, but if, at the end of the day, you tuck your child into bed and they know how deeply they are loved—by you and by their Creator—you have won the day.
Spring is bringing a new season, and as we welcome it, I hope you will also embrace the season you find yourself in as a parent.
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