Sept. 10, 2025
Nature provides lessons in patience and resilience, reminding us that growth and change are gradual
processes, not to be rushed. Observing ecosystems teaches us about interconnectedness and collaboration, showing how everything has a purpose and works together, even if its role isn’t immediately obvious. It also emphasizes adaptability, as plants and animals adjust to thrive in different environments, urging us to be flexible in our own lives. Furthermore, nature demonstrates the importance of balance and harmony, offering a sense of calm and encouraging us to find joy in simple things and accept life’s cycles of change and rebirth.
Here are some specific life lessons from nature:
Patience and Perseverance:
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. Growth takes time, and meaningful changes
come through consistent, gradual effort, not immediate results.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you
know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”. James 1:2-4,
Resilience and Adaptability:
Just as trees bend in the wind and rivers find new paths around obstacles, we can learn to adapt to
challenges and grow stronger through difficult experiences.
“Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so
that you may discern and approve what is the will of God—what is good, perfect, and
pleasing”. This encourages transformation rather than conformity, highlighting mental adaptability.
Romans 12:2:
Interconnectedness:
Every element of an ecosystem, from the smallest insect to the largest tree, has a purpose and is
connected to others. This reminds us that we are part of a larger whole.
“For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also, is Christ”. 1 Corinthians 12
Letting Go and Transformation:
Like a tree shedding its leaves to grow new ones in the spring, we should embrace change and
transformation rather than resisting it.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Finding Purpose:
In nature, everything has its own inherent purpose. This can encourage us to appreciate the unique
role and value of each living thing.
The LORD has made everything for its purpose.” Proverbs 16:4
Harmony and Balance:
The seasons change, tides rise and fall, and ecosystems work in harmony. This teaches us to strive for
balance and appreciate the natural rhythm of life.
The LORD has made everything for its purpose.” Romans 12:16
The Beauty of Simplicity:
A tree needs basic elements like water, soil, and sun to flourish. This can inspire us to find
satisfaction in simple things and meet our basic needs.
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the
circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation”. Philippians 4:11-12
Being in the Moment:
Spending time in nature can foster mindfulness, helping us to be more present and appreciate the
world around us.
Matthew 6:34, which states, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own”
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Changing your PARS Donations
PARS program. – If you are on the PARS program for your church giving and you wish to update your monthly donation, this can be easily done by contacting Jackie Taylor either in person or by email
at jacquelinet@sympatico.ca
Potluck Sign Up
Music & Worship is organizing a pot luck lunch after worship on Sunday, October 5. The sign-up sheet for this welcome back event is on the bulletin board in the entryway to the church. What a lovely way to spend time with friends and to be thankful for all that we have.
Our New Instagram Account
We’re pleased to share that Graceview now has an official Instagram account! It will be maintained
by Rachael Chen and will focus especially on updates and outreach related to our new Young Adults Group.
We invite you all to follow our IG account.
Here is the link:
https://www.instagram.com/graceview.presbyterian?igsh=MnlpeXE5YTYyN2ly
Egg Cartons Wanted
St. James Food Basket is once again in need of egg cartons, at least for the summer months.
Please leave them in the cloakroom at Graceview and they will be taken to St. James. Thank you for your help.
A Fall Devotional Update
A new edition of Our Daily Bread (September/October/November), as well as the current edition of These
Days (July/August/September) are available on the table in the church vestibule and in the devotional box on the church porch.
Coffee Sign-Up
It is that time of year again when we are looking for volunteers to serve coffe and tea during after worship fellowship time. The sign up sheet is on the bulletin board in the Adamson Lounge for now.
- Sept. 14 – Harry & Pat
- Sept. 21 – Glen & Gregg
- Sept. 28 – Robyn & MargaretOct. 5. – Pot Luck Lunch
- Nov. 2. – Loreen & Margaret
Thank you to all of you who have given so willingly of your time and efforts. We appreciate you!!