by Jim Brewer

“He hath made everything beautiful in his time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11.

There are many factors that make up what we call the fall season. The coloring of the leaves, the cooling temperatures, the honking of wildlife making their southern trek. All of these give our senses the gentle reminder that God is still in control, and time marches on with the beauty of his being covering the landscape of life.

As I reflect over the past summer, I survey the seasons of life within the Fellowship of Christian Farmers International. As a pastor, one of the dominant colors that beckons my attention and admiration is the little observed account that transpires during what we call “stick days.”

Providing a level working spot for this activity as we assemble to give out these sticks is such a small thing compared to the vital work others do. We are privileged to rub shoulders, shake hands and stand tall with people who come to help with this activity.

Talk about diversity, people come from every corner, including different churches and doctrines, from different nationalities, and different states. They come in cars, campers, trucks, vans and motor homes. The young, old and every age in between converge to join in one mission. They work well under the leadership of Bill and Kathy Brown, who open up their home for a fast-paced, fun-filled fellowship with fantastic food.

Like the various leaves that were on the trees, there is something special in the air as we gather to celebrate the lord of the harvest. The hallowing of the harvest, at least for me, is captured beautifully by Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924):

“Like a mighty army Moves the Church of God.
Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.
We are not divided; All one body we:
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity. Onward Christian soldiers!

Brewer writes from New York’s North Country.