During this lovely time of the year, Autumn, I can't help but enjoy the colorful changes to the leaves on the trees that surround my home. Most of them are on the ground now. Colorful leaves that were brilliant orange, fiery red, and warm yellows are now turning shades of brown.

I give a lot of thought to the Autumn leaves but not once do I recall pondering the barren branches left behind, exposed to the coming winter. Branches looking lifeless without their fluttering leaves that danced in the wind not so long ago.

There the trees stand. Once upon a season ago, they looked strong and not so vulnerable as they do now. A representation of how life can be for some. A period of time when days drag on, when waiting seems to never end.

Then Spring time comes. The ground thaws. As if the earth finally wakens and rejoices in the new life it has been given. Birds sing, critters crawl, buds form, rich color returns after the winters sleep.

Through the seasons of life when we feel vulnerable and weak, the Lord is with us. He gave us that promise. His arms will be around you. You are never alone. You will find you can accomplish far more than you ever dreamed possible, no matter what you are going through.

Embrace the warmth and comfort as the loving arms of Jesus wrap around you.

... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Matthew 28:20