An Appointed Time for Everything

Throughout time, people have been fascinated by the seasons, the phases of the moon, and other celestial patterns. Their observations have led many to develop gods and religions. Seasonal changes particularly have been important to those (like farmers) whose livelihood depends on the weather. But the changes impact all of our lives in some ways.

These changes became the inspiration for a package of four violin concertos written by Antonio Vivaldi, who was born on this day in 1678. These concertos, called “The Four Seasons,” were written around 1723. Yet, like the rest of Vivaldi’s work, they remained largely forgotten for nearly two hundred years until “rediscovered” in 1926.

Since that time, these concertos, with their diverse harmonies and pleasing melodies, have become concert and recording favorites.

All of us may observe the passing of the seasons. But the Bible reminds us that our focus should be on God, for He is the Creator of everything in creation. He even warned us not to lift up our eyes to “the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, and be drawn away and worship them and serve them” (Deuteronomy 4:19).

The Bible reminds us that seasons are important to God, that He has a calendar. We get a glimpse of these patterns when we see winter passing into spring. As farmers know, this is the time to plant— if they want a harvest.

The Bible also reminds us that our lives pass through seasons. That there is “an appointed time for everything” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Today, think about this season in your life. Remember the “seeds” that God has given you. Your time, and how you spend it. Your resources, and what you do with them. Your talents and abilities. Remember, you have been given these gifts to Sow, investing them in the lives of others and in His Kingdom.