Seasons of the Heart: Summer
Summer is by far my favorite season. The warmth of long awaited solar hugs penetrate deep into my bones. My breathing becomes slow, steady and deep, as I pause to take in all of natures beauty. It’s a time for resting, summer is. A time for watching the seeds sown in the spring begin to rise out of the earth and flourish. Small sprouts gradually turn into beautiful gardens. Herbs multiply, waiting to be used in my next culinary dish. Flowers bloom into blossoms of glory, sprinkling porches and patios with welcoming splashes of vibrant colors.
But even summer in all its splendor comes with its own set of dangers. One has to be careful in summer. Afternoon naps in shaded hammocks can lull us into thinking all is well. Caught up in summer activities of vacationing, picnicking, food trucks and outdoor concerts, it’s easy to be swept away with the enjoyment of highly anticipated fun in the sun.
But gardens still need tending to. They need to be watered and weeded to remain healthy so they will produce fruit. Summertime of the heart equally requires constant and faithful attention to water our souls with the Living water. This water refreshes the spirit and calms an anxious heart. Watering our souls with God’s word establishes deep roots that will be able to stand up against the storms that loom in the distance. Tempted to let our spiritual life slide during the lazy days of summer, may we find the time to linger long in the presence of Christ through reading and reflection.
Sadly, pop-up storms are also part of this glorious season. They come out of nowhere. One minute, it’s a warm, sunny day and the next, the skies are ominous. Darkness begins to hover over the earth as tornadoes form and hurricanes gain strength. Sirens scream out warnings to take shelter. Evacuate. Run for cover. This one’s a big one and it could do significant damage to yourself and others. And so we make haste to seek protection and hide away in our safe rooms.
But not all summer storms consist of wind and water. Summer storms of the heart are far less visible. The twisters we experience are the twisting of words, truth, and perceptions which do as much or more damage than the twisting of things. Just as summer storms threaten to take down our property, summer storms of the heart threaten to take out the things we have built our lives around. We find ourselves running as fast as we can to find shelter in the shadow of the Almighty. Our safe place and refuge is not made up of bricks and mortar, but rather it lies in the confidence knowing God is with us in the midst of this storm. His grace will sustain us.
While the thunder rolls and the lightning strikes, we can pray for the protection of those we love. God works on our behalf to validate and vindicate us at the same time. We can stand firm in hope that our Heavenly Father will somehow restore what’s been stolen and heal what’s been broken. Only He can bind up the wounds of those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. Only He can bring healing to innermost places of our heart. He waits with arms wide open to all who will come to Him.
Summer storms eventually move on and blue skies appear once again. So do the summer storms of the heart. Damaged buildings are repaired, and over time, broken hearts are made new. The new landscape might look a little different. It will probably never be the same. But in its difference, there is always the beautiful. A new form of beauty where darkness is made light is not impossible if God is in it. His redemptive power is only a prayer away.
Eventually, our world stops spinning and peace begins to settle back into the depth of our souls. The summer sun still shines bright as flowers continue to whisper, “Life is good.” And so once again, we embrace all things summer. We count the stars, gaze at the moon, and dance with the fireflies. Always, dance with the fireflies.
What About You?
What are your favorite activities to do in the summer?
How do you stay connected to God during the lazy days of summer?
Have you ever experienced a pop-up storm of the heart?
If so, how did God’s grace sustain you?
