Thankful for the Changing Seasons
Saturday - November 21st
Day 21: Attitude of Gratitude
Scripture to Read Today: Song of Solomon 2:10-13
See! The winter is past;
the rains are over and gone.
Song of Solomon 2:11
The sun set at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Utqiaġvik, Alaska. Yes, you read that correctly, 1:30 p.m. Utqiaġvik (formerly known as Barrow) is the United States' northernmost town. The sun won't rise again there for another 66 days. When it does, it will be 2021, the presidential inauguration will have taken place, and a COVID-19 vaccine may be available.
For this Alaskan town, the polar night is a normal phenomenon that happens every year. According to The National Weather Service, the sun will not rise again in Utqiaġvik until January 23.
According to Carson Frank, an associate at the University of Alaska Museum, some Alaskans prepare for the long winter by taking Vitamin D or relying on a "happy light," which mimics daylight. The polar night happens each winter because of the tilt of the Earth's axis. There won't be complete darkness. According to meteorologist Danielle Banks of The Weather Channel, "There are a few hours each day with enough light to see. But the folks who live here have technically seen their last sunset until 2021," she said.
The Bible often speaks of the different seasons of the year. In the romantic passion of the Song of Solomon, spring, as it does today, represents the season of life and love. Song of Solomon 2:10-13 describes the end of winter and the initiation of spring - the season of love.
Biblical authors from the psalmist to the Apostle Paul reference the seasons of winter and fall. In southern California, we joke that despite the incredible sunny weather, we have four seasons. We enjoy the seasons of sunshine, Santa Anna winds, fire, and mudslides. Of course, we have spring, summer, winter, and fall. Our seasons' distinction may not be as clear as they are in Indiana where I grew up.
As we thank God for so many things this year, let's be grateful for the beauty of His creativity seen in the seasons. Thank God for the fresh snow of winter, the beautiful flowers of spring, the warmth of summer, and the painted leaves of fall. God brings change into the regular rhythms of life. He knows we need it.
Take the time to reread Song of Solomon 2:10-13 and thank God for the changing seasons!