Enjoy the relaxed pace of summer, but take time to thank God for the privilege

Seems like there’s always a point, usually in early June, when it suddenly becomes summer. I’m not a fan of temps above 90, but I do enjoy the more relaxed pace of this season. It’s certainly nice not to need extra time to bundle up every time I leave the house!

Some of us choose to take on additional activities over the summer and stay as busy as ever, but things tend to slow down a bit for a lot of us. Students and teachers are away from school. Lots of other activities take a hiatus for these weeks of summer. It’s a blessing to enjoy that break from intense schedules packed with activities.

The sun is up earlier, and it sticks around later, which makes so many things easier. With family and friends scattered in surrounding states, we travel a lot. It’s nice to be able to drive in daylight well into the evening, and to watch a brilliant sunset over a wide open horizon.

The great weather and long evenings also lend themselves to leisurely fellowship closer to home — around a backyard fire, on the deck, or at the park. What a gift to be able to slow down and enjoy the company of friends and family with cool drinks and fresh food — beautiful gifts of creation.

And creation’s gifts are on full display during these warm months. The sky is blue and the sun is bright. The colors that surround us are more vibrant. Trees are full, flowers are blooming, gardens will soon be producing. Those of us who are able to revel in these delights of the season should be mindful that not everyone shares in them. Those whose daily work that depends on good weather are swamped with full calendars and long hours of labor, and we give thanks for their efforts. Whether our summer activities center on work or relaxation, God is in the midst of it. Wherever the season takes us, we never go alone. God travels with us — in fact, God is already waiting for us in the midst of our family fellowship, fun with friends and enjoyment of nature.

With such great gifts so abundant in these days, it’s a perfect time to give thanks to the God who gives them all to us! You need to raise your voice in thanksgiving, and you need to hear the promises of God proclaimed for you — all year round.

Be sure to take time to worship the God who created all the gifts we enjoy this summer.