The corn stalks are knee-high, but that isn’t the only clue that summer is over. Fall is here in Florida, and the tomatoes are finally setting blossoms. The squash is all a’bloom. It was only earlier this week that the temperatures had dipped into the low 70’s. My children gave up a loud “whoop,” put on their winter coats, and headed outside. One of them even found mittens.

They were rehearsing. We will have three or four days of cold this year, and they want to be ready. In the same way, my daughters rehearse for a future home with flair as they sip their tea out of plastic dishes with their pinkies in the air. My son practices for the day he will provide for his family one day—fixing things, helping his sisters, and working without complaining. Even our puppy, Knox, thinks he’s big stuff—barking at vicious bushy-tailed squirrels that might attack our family. He’ll be useful one day; I’m sure of it.

Everyone is looking forward to one day. For the young person, it might be the day of their marriage. For others, it is the hope of seeing great-grandchildren who are faithful to Christ. And for every person who believes in Christ, the promise of heaven is the best “one day” there is.

As for my soon-to-be five-year-old, she is excited about her upcoming birthday. She has requested to go bowling (?!?!) and “get a medium frosty instead of a small one at Wendy’s.”