October: A Season of Harvest and Reflection
October ushers in the season of harvest, a time when we reflect on the beauty of creation and enjoy its bountiful gifts. Yet, for many farmers, this year has been particularly challenging. From early-season cold snaps to the prolonged heat and drought of the summer, the weather has been anything but kind. While most of us buy our fruits and vegetables from supermarkets and are perhaps distanced from these difficulties, it is important to remember the real struggles faced by those who grow and harvest our food. Historically, early harvest festivals involved the creation of a special loaf, made from the first wheat crops. This bread, known as Lammas or ‘loaf mass’; was brought to church and used for communion, often celebrated in early August when the first crops were harvested. In more recent times, people would bring a portion of their produce from farms and gardens—offering the first fruits of their labour to God. The church would then share these gifts with those in need. Today, we continue this tradition by bringing food and other essential items to church, supporting those in need through the Basics Bank. While most of us no longer depend on our own gardens for survival, the principle of offering back to God remains. As we reflect on harvest, we might ask ourselves: what does it mean for us now to offer the first fruits of our labours to God?
During October, it may be worth thinking about how we respond to God’s gift of creation. In a world where billions cry out for justice and resources are so unevenly distributed, what does it mean to practice generosity today? In the Old Testament, as King David prepares to build the temple, he praises God with these words:
Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour, and the majesty; for everything in heaven and on earth is yours. All things come from you, and of your own do we give you (1 Chronicles 29:11, 14).
As we celebrate this harvest season, let us remember that everything we have is a gift from God, and may we find ways to offer back in gratitude and generosity.
Yours in Christ
Rev Steve