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In just a little over ten days, we will embark on a long journey to Korea. Our daily routines here will pause for a while, and that means the familiar neighborhood forest paths I often enjoy will soon be out of reach. So these days, I am trying to make time—whenever possible—to visit the woods more frequently.

 

Today as well, I persuaded my wife to join me for a walk. Side by side, we breathed in the fragrance of autumn and savored the beauty of the season as sunlight filtered softly through the leaves. This time of walking together feels, in many ways, like a gift more precious than any journey we might take.

 

Just a few days ago, the fallen leaves covering the path were still glowing with a vivid golden hue. Yet in the span of only a few days, they have dried and begun to fade. The season moves forward quietly, one step at a time. This is how autumn deepens.

 

Suddenly, a thought came to me: our lives are not so different. The brilliant colors of youth gradually soften, and our strength and energy are not what they once were. Yet in their place, the depth and maturity of life quietly grow. Just as falling leaves do not mark an end but prepare the way for a new season, so the autumn of life is not merely decline—it is a time when God grants deeper wisdom and richer grace.

 

The Psalmist prayed, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” When we recognize the finiteness of life, we begin to understand the value of each day and the preciousness of those beside us. This forest path I walk with my wife today, the crisp sound of leaves beneath our feet, and the fragrance of the deepening autumn—all are gifts of grace from God.

 

Autumn begins as it settles upon the path, and the wisdom of life grows as we watch time pass. Today, as I walk through this God‑given season with gratitude, I pray that I may live the days ahead with greater wisdom and beauty.

 

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

 

Prayer

 

Lord, thank You for allowing the deepening autumn to prompt us to reflect on the meaning of life. Help us not to lament the passing of time, but to live each day with gratitude, remembering the preciousness of ordinary moments shared with those we love. Even as our lives reach their late autumn, may we grow deeper and more beautiful in Your grace, and may we walk the remaining path with a wise and discerning heart. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.