True Colors

When life gets difficult it has a way of revealing our true colors. A retired science teacher at the Holden Arboretum patiently described to me the science of what really happens when leaves “change” this time of year. Those bright green leaves in spring and summer are full of chlorophyll, which is continuously produced and broken down, making the leaves appear green. This time of year, as the days get shorter and cooler, the green chlorophyll pigments break down, exposing the colors of the leaves. The colors were always there; they were just under the cover of the green chlorophyll. Under duress, their true colors are exposed. As you notice the change in the leaves this autumn, I want to encourage you to remember that difficult experiences in life can expose who we truly are and it leads to something quite beautiful. 

The apostle James put it well when he wrote, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4 ESV) I like that he emphasizes how it is a matter of when, not if there are trials. Like the inevitable change of the seasons, we know life will have its unique challenges. James sees these not as tragedies, but as trials or tests of our faith. He implies here that we can pass the test if we persevere in the strength of the Lord. 

I don’t know what your unique trials are today, but I join James in praying they would reveal in you the fullness of God’s sufficiency. In Him, James reminds us that we can be perfect, lacking nothing! That sounds like a wonderful recipe for joy amidst whatever life throws at us. May this be the reality of our lives.

Expectantly,

Shawn