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You Are Mine; I Have Called You by Name

The fall season is just breathtaking in New York. It is one of the reasons that I love living in Buffalo (we won’t mention the snow that follows!). The colors of the leaves are such a vivid red, yellow and orange; and the apples are crisp, fresh and delicious! It’s a time of hay rides and visits to the area farms and most importantly - pies (thanks to my mother-in-law).

Fall is also a time to remember all of the wonderful gifts of the earth from God. No one can complain about a bountiful harvest!

In fall, people in my neighborhood decorate the outside of their homes with hay stalks and stacks, colorful mums, scarecrows and lots of pumpkins. By the end of the month, the pumpkins begin to look like jack-o-lanterns, and Halloween decorations are everywhere.

I once heard someone compare “being a Christian” to “being a pumpkin.” God goes out into the field and picks you from the patch. He holds on to you tight and doesn’t let you fall and splatter all over the ground. He brushes off the bugs and shoos away the birds that are trying to pick at you, and He brings you to a faucet and washes off all the dirt. After He dries you off, He cuts off your top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He then removes the seeds of doubt, hate and greed, and He carves you a new smiling face.

Finally, when you are all set, God puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see—He’s a creator, a protector, an artist, and a Father who shows His love to us so that we can show our love to others and spread His love to the whole neighborhood. What a great decoration to add to our homes this Fall!

As you look at the wonders of Fall all around you, remember the “pumpkin” and the blessings that the Lord has poured upon you.

“Dear Lord, help us to know and appreciate all of the gifts you have given to us. Help us to know in our hearts that we are your children, and we can share Your love with others. Help us to shine for You. Amen.”