From the Vicarage

September always, to me at least, carries a unique energy. For children, their parents and of course teachers, it marks the start of a brand-new academic term. For gardens and fields, it signals the approach of the harvest. Sadly, this year due to all the heat waves that we have had the harvest for the farmers all seem to be depleted due to the lack of water.

However, even if we finished school decades ago, many of us still feel that familiar, lingering ‘back-to-school’ sensation when the air grows crisper and the leaves begin to turn. September, much like January, is often a time, a natural threshold perhaps for fresh starts.

Fresh starts, however, can also be a double-edged sword, and whilst a new routine can bring a welcome sense of order and structure, it can also bring pressure. We can look at a blank calendar and feel the sudden weight of expectations—from our workplaces, our families, or even ourselves. We then seem to rush and fill those blank spaces on the calendar, or buy the new supplies for a new project, and also to push ourselves to adapt to a faster pace after the slower, gentler rhythm of summer.

However, in the midst of this seasonal transition, it is helpful to recall a simple, comforting truth from the bible:

‘The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.’ - Lamentations 3:22-23.

Notice that God does not ration his grace by the season or wait for us to have our lives perfectly organised before he shows up. His mercy is renewed every single morning. Just think of that great hymn by John Keble – 1882.

‘New ev'ry morning is the love

our waking and uprising prove;

through sleep and darkness safely brought,

restored to life and pow'r and thought.’

So, whether you are stepping into a daunting new chapter this month, facing an empty nest, starting a new job, or simply trying to handle the chaotic demands of everyday life, you do not have to rely solely on your own strength.

This September, let us challenge ourselves to slow down before the autumn calendar completely takes over. Instead of focusing heavily on what we need to achieve, let us look at who God created us to be. We can embrace new opportunities without losing our inner peace by anchoring ourselves daily in prayer and community.

As we watch the seasons change around us, may we take deep comfort in knowing that the God who creates the harvest is holding our hands through every single transition.

Wishing you all a blessed, peaceful, and purposeful September.

Robert