Here it is the end of July already! Time flies by in the summer, which always reminds me of the importance of enjoying each day. The warmth of the sun in the daylight, the glow of the moon and stars at night and everything in between! Each day I try to remember to give thanks for the beauty and goodness of creation and the many experiences and people who bring us joy and happiness. We are blessed and by remembering that fact, it helps us get through those days and times that are challenging and sometimes downright difficult.
This past Sunday our Scripture reading told us how Jesus’ disciples returned to him after a time of traveling and teaching and healing. Jesus said to them, “Come by yourselves to a secluded place and rest for a while.” That is such a great invitation for summer in Duluth!
We all live in a rhythm of time. Our days are bound by activities like work, daily chores and all those things necessary for our life and our living. However, our rhythm is thrown out of balance when our activity demands more of our energy than our rest. We are instructed as a part of the Ten Commandments to “Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.”
Often we think of our Sabbath as Sunday, the day we gather for corporate worship, and a day of rest. And this is true. But I think the true meaning of Sabbath goes beyond the “usual” Sunday to a specific time each day and a specific attitude.
It is in our daily “time of Sabbath” that our souls are rejuvenated, our bodies relax, our emotions subside and our thoughts slow down. Most importantly, we put our lives and ourselves on hold to let the Spirit of God enter in to offer a time of true Sabbath.
For me, summer provides my “nature fix” as I visit those favorite places that feed my soul. I get excited when I sit and watch the changing summer waters of Lake Superior, walk through my cathedral of quaking aspen, lie on the grass looking at the moon and stars, and soak up the warmth of the summer sun. The words from one of my favorite hymns comes to mind:
“God of the sparrow, God of the whale,
God of the swirling stars
How does the creature say Awe,
How does the creature say Praise . . .
God of the ages, God near at hand,
God of the loving heart
How do your children say Joy
How do your children say Home.”
Church also has a different rhythm in the summer. Our time together seems more relaxed and there are many opportunities to share a meal and time of fellowship. I hope you will look at the events listed in the Newsletter and join us during these last months of summer.
Blessings,
Pastor Cindy