Text for the Month
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5).
Autumn is here, and suddenly the world seems to swap its summer clothes for something warmer and cosier. Trees put on their finest outfits of red and gold, pumpkins appear on doorsteps, and the air carries that crisp freshness which makes a hot drink taste even better. Creation celebrates this season with joy, yet autumn also reminds us that the year is moving on. Leaves begin to fall, the fields are gathered in, and creation seems to whisper that it is time to rest. It is both beautiful and sobering: a reminder of life’s richness and the reality of change.
Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5).
Autumn is the season of fruitfulness - the harvest is gathered, apple trees hang heavy, grapevines are ready to be pressed. In the same way, God grows good things in our lives to nourish others: sometimes as simple as a smile, a kind word, or moments of fellowship.
The psalmist prayed, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). The fading light and falling leaves remind us that life is precious and time is a gift not to be wasted. This awareness need not bring fear but instead gratitude, deepening our sense of what truly matters.
The harvest also points us to God’s faithfulness. Just as the earth yields its fruit in season, so God provides what we need. We give thanks not only for food, but for friendship, community, and opportunities to grow. And autumn carries hope as well. Trees lose their leaves, but we know this is not the end of their story. Seasons of loss or endings in our lives may be painful, but in Christ we are promised renewal. The God who brings spring after winter will also bring new life to us, even when we cannot yet see it.
So this October, as colours change and perhaps we enjoy an extra helping of blackberry and apple crumble, let’s give thanks. God is with us in every season, bringing beauty, joy, and fruitfulness. And just as the trees trust that spring will return, we too can trust Him to bring new life into our hearts and communities. Let us number our days wisely—living thankfully, letting go where we must, and trusting Him with the seasons still to come.
Sabrina Gröschel, Chaplain of the German YMCA in London