06
Jul
In the second week of the Joy to the Soul Summer series, we lean into the next encouraging message from the season. But these five whispers are my observations. As we go through the next few weeks, you may have some of your own.
Our first whisper from the summer told us things don’t always stay the same. But as I sit on my front porch, a second realization comes to me. According to scientists, the earth is farthest away from the sun during the summer. When I wipe the sweat from my brow, it feels like the sun is a lot closer than the scientists think.
Hence, wearing sunglasses and sunscreen is still a good idea. And yet, when it’s not sweltering, the warmth of the sun can be comforting. In the morning, as daybreak enters your part of the world, try to enter a moment of stillness (for two minutes or so). As a scriptural meditation, focus on these words:
“Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun”. (Ecclesiastes 11:7)
The blessing of seeing the sun each morning is a reminder. Each day God’s mercy rises to meet us in unexpected ways. The light is sweet. The gift is grand.
Hence, the light of God’s truth brings sweet comfort. Its embrace is needed when life brings sadness or a decision requires wisdom. And yet, His light brings clarity when my mind needs renewal from a flurry of concerns, day or night.
But stillness doesn’t come naturally to me. Yet stillness offers a reward that is greater than my reluctance to rest. It’s the second whisper I hear.
Peace in God’s presence guards the mind and calms the soul. (Philippians 4:6-8) Stillness is the posture of receiving. We might be surprised by the way truth settles within us.
I pray for sweet memories to form around your life this summer. Of course, the wonder of summer’s light remains. It pleases my eyes to see the sun.
REFLECTION OR DISCUSSION: What does it please your eyes to see about God and His grace in your life this summer?
Meet me here each week for more “Joy to the Soul Summer” reflections. Invite your friends to join you! The discussion question at the end of each post may be used for a journal prompt or group discussion.
Read more “Joy to the Soul Summer” posts here.
Lisa notes...
Summer is my favorite season although I don’t always appreciate the stifling heat. 😉 Nonetheless, I am grateful for a little slower pace in the summer and the ability to walk around barefooted, in shorts and t-shirts.
Joy
Hi Lisa! I’m glad this is your favorite season.🌞 Hopefully, the weather where you live is enjoyable (most days). Enjoy the rest of your barefoot summer!
Lucille
Hi Joy, I know that you recognize military time. As a former USPS mailhandler who worked on Tour 1 (23:00 to 07:30), I rejoiced to see the sun come up. Others and I would gather near a window or on the docks and watch around 05:30 to 06:30. Felt good to get some heat, too, after a night of cold and darkness. However, the sun can be a foe and a friend. Think of that eagle and where she builds her nest. “Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high?” (Job Ch. 39) The sun does not feel good that high up. It can burn. John said of Christ, “And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.” The sun is strong. So perspective is everything. Plants need the sun for photosynthesis. We humans need the sun to manufacture Vitamin D through the skin.
Joy
Hi Lucille! I imagine your USPS shift provided you with many observations about the sun. Thanks so much for sharing them. I hope you’re enjoying this series and your summer!