There is a Season
- Paul Inglis
- Apr 14, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 26
With thanks to Paul Inglis, UC Forum who ran this same reflection in April 2023.
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.
Remember the song with melody written by Pete Seger?
Here is a link to refresh your memory. The beautiful singer is Judy Collins
Reflection:
1. What is your feeling about the sentiment expressed in this passage?
2. Do you agree with all of it?
3. What have you observed that is changing in your world?
4. What seems to stay the same?
5. Are you happy about this?
FAQs: There Is a Season - Spiritual Rhythms & Meaning
What does “There Is a Season” mean in spiritual life?
The phrase echoes Ecclesiastes 3:1 - “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Wikipedia In spiritual terms it reminds us that life unfolds in cycles: times of growth, pruning, waiting, harvesting, and letting go. Recognising your current season helps you respond wisely rather than resist change.
How do I know which spiritual season I’m in?
You can sense your spiritual season through inner clues: restlessness, a shift in desires, resistance to your old routines, or a deep longing for something new. Many spiritual writers describe seasons like wilderness, growth, pruning, and harvest to name common patterns Beloved Women. Asking questions, journaling, and spiritual direction help you discern more clearly.
Why do spiritual seasons matter for faith practice?
Because the practices that fed you in one season may no longer nourish you in another. As Kristen Yates points out, spiritual rhythms change like natural seasons - you cannot insist on summer practices during winter Rhythms of the Way. Honouring the season allows faith to breathe and prevents burnout or stagnation.
What spiritual practices suit different seasons?
Wilderness / winter times: silence, lament, surrender, contemplative rest
Growth / spring times: exploration, learning, fresh disciplines
Pruning / autumn: letting go, inner work, forgiveness
Harvest / summer: celebration, sharing, outward service
No season is permanent. Rotate practices to match the soil of your soul, rather than forcing one formula for all times.
Can I move from one season into another intentionally?
Yes - though it’s not always fast or seamless. Transition often requires surrender, patience, and trust. You may need to release control over timing, hold paradox, and allow the gifts of the current season to ripen. As unity traditions teach, transitions often include an ending, a void, then a new beginning unity.org. Walking forward with awareness allows the Spirit to guide your shift.
At St Lucia Spirituality we believe the journey is richer when it’s shared. If you’re seeking a place to explore questions, practice mindfulness, or simply belong to an inclusive spiritual community, we invite you to join us. From online discussion groups and meditation gatherings to our growing library of resources, there’s space here for every seeker. Step into the conversation, connect with others, and discover how community can nurture your spiritual growth.
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