Photo credit: Brian McCord

As with so many years gone by, I sense a change in the air every year as we have that first cool snap. I think everyone can feel some excitement as we transition from the long hot days of summer to the less humid crispness of the approaching harvest and the fall season. Even though the growing season is ending, and harvest is on the horizon for most of our farm production, there are still many exciting things just around the corner.

Crockpots are taken out of the cabinets, and the first big pot of chili is made. The favorite sweatshirt or hoodie is waiting and ready to provide that warm comfort you’ve looked forward to needing. There are great nights ahead around the campfire or fire pit in the backyard where little ones enjoy trying to roast a marshmallow just right.

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Many dread fall because it’s a reminder of winter, the lack of blooms and cold weather ahead, but I see it in a different way. When the trees put on their spectacular show with all their vibrant colors, it’s almost like a celebration for them for a job well done. After all, think about all they have provided for numerous birds and other creatures throughout the year. Harvest is a time for them to rest as they shed their leaves for the winter ahead.

The Excitement of Harvest

Now, the anticipation for harvest time is much like a kid waiting for Christmas to roll around, and by the time the cool weather comes around, there has already been a buildup of preparation and excitement for farmers. Growers start this season with hope and faith that all the hard work during planting season will pay off and the crops will be bountiful and strong. They also start with enough faith to trust the Lord and continue on if that doesn’t happen, giving thanks anyways. For Ephesians 5:20 tells us, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

As you begin to see trucks, carts, combines and equipment on the road, rather than be disappointed because it is slowing you down, I encourage you to think about the harvest, what is coming and what it will mean for you. Imagine that warm bowl of soup with beef or corn in it, or maybe that cozy cotton throw blanket you’re going to wrap up in to watch the Tennessee football game. And what about those wheat crackers to go with your favorite bowl of chili? Everything we eat and wear is thanks to the men and women who are inside that farm equipment, spending long hours and days in the field to ensure you are able to enjoy those comforts. Remember that this fall. And I’ll also say, let this time of year be a reminder to us to always be thankful to God for the food and clothes we have and never take it for granted.

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The Bible tells us in Genesis 8:22, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” I thank God for all the seasons we have. I truly believe with each season, God has put us here on Earth to accomplish something specific just like we walk through different seasons of joy and sorrow in our own lives. No matter what, the Lord is with us through every single one.

While I understand if some of you prefer the fragrant smell of flowers on a spring day or maybe the sound of laughter of kiddos enjoying the pool on a hot summer afternoon or even the possibility of a good snowball fight, I just can’t help but find myself looking forward to fall and everyone coming together and working hard to accomplish a great harvest.

And let’s not forget, fall and harvest time offers fun activities for you and your family as well. I hope this season finds you in a pumpkin patch picking out that perfect one for carving that someone has put great effort into growing for you. I hope the apple cider is warm on a chilly night during a hayride. More than anything, I hope you take time to look up at that harvest moon and be in awe and wonder of the awesome beauty God has given us here on Earth. Enjoy this fall season, spend intentional time with friends and loved ones, and remember those who are working hard to provide the food, fiber and fuel for all of us.