Summer Begins

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Continuing the Celebrations!! theme from my last blog, let’s celebrate the beginning of Summer! Last Saturday, June 20, 2020, happened to be this year’s longest day or Summer Solstice. Solstice comes from the Latin words “sol ‘sun’ + stit- ‘stopped, stationary’ (from the verb sistere).” This, of course, happens twice a year, summer and winter. But, summer is my favorite!

This past Wednesday, June 24th, I experienced the essence of summer for me. Sitting on the sand, I felt the warmth of the sun on my face. The waves lapped on the shore of Lake Michigan as the fresh, gentle breezes blew. The seagulls squawked as a handful of families played and swam. As I looked out, I could see the red and white lighthouses at the end of a long concrete pier, where fisherman were casting their lines. Further out in the distance, a dozen or so sailboats skimmed across the water like a regatta. I felt like I was in the lap of luxury with the multi million dollar homes behind me and this wonderful view in front of me. I also felt blessed since I only had to pay $7 for a daily pass to enjoy this little, yet beautiful city park.

Whether we’re basking in glorious rays of sunshine, or gazing at a twinkling night sky, nature speaks to our souls and refreshes us. David said it best in Psalm 19:1-6.

The heavens proclaim the glory of God.    

The skies display his craftsmanship.
2 Day after day they continue to speak;
    night after night they make him known.
3 They speak without a sound or word;
    their voice is never heard.
4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
    and their words to all the world.

God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.
5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding.
    It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.
6 The sun rises at one end of the heavens
    and follows its course to the other end.
    Nothing can hide from its heat.

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The sun, moon, and stars “speak without a sound or word”, but very loudly proclaim that God is the creator of the heavens and the earth. I find this very comforting and relaxing while living during this time of crisis, lawlessness, and demonic manifestations. In addition, it bears repeating what Jesus said in John 16:33. “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

If you are needing a moment to breathe, may you observe the heavens and know that God has overcome the world. Bask in His creative light while living in a world of darkness, so that you will be blessed and be a blessing In Jesus Name! Go forth bold, blessed and brilliant! Subscribe and comment below.