Summertime and Sabbath Time

Summerti-i-i-i-ime, and the livin’ is easy . . .

So goes the song that seems to capture the mood around here at this time of the year.
Everything seems to slide to a slow glide.
People’s gait seems to change.
Most of our “programmed activity” takes a hiatus.
We seek avenues of solitude and alternative amusements.

For many of us, Summertime has become Sabbath-time:
a time for respite,
a time for rest,
a time for relaxation,
a time for restoration,
a time for rejuvenation,
a time for recovery,
a time for restoration,
a time for rebirth,
a time for reawakening,
a time for recuperation,
a time for resurrection.

Yes, summertime can be all of these things.
Time seems to slow down in the summer, doesn’t it?
(Perhaps it’s the heat and the humidity, but I think it’s more than that.)
Nature has a way of forcing sabbaticals on us.

As if God were reminding us that all moments are precious:
the roses need to be smelled, the breeze needs to be felt, the rain needs to be celebrated,
the fruits need to be savored, the relationships need to be cultivated,
the children need to be befriended –
and laughter needs to resound all around.

Sabbath times are holy times.
And summer times are holy times – if we remember to put first things first.
Putting first things first, means to affirm the words of the Psalmist: This is the day the Lord has made . . . rejoice and be glad!

These are spiritual days.

An article in one of the popular magazines this month proffers:
“Summer offers opportunities not readily available at other times to appreciate the abundance in the natural order of things and the cycle of life – verdant hues and bright colors,
sunny days and soaring temperatures,
the scent of newly cut grass and freshly turned soul,
less and lighter clothing,
trips to the shore,
a vacation or holiday,
travel, outdoor activities, weddings, gatherings of family and friends.”

In spite of all this, it is easy for us to become detached from all that keeps summer so sacred and spiritual.
So, my prayer is that you will find holy times this summer as you take advantage of the days given to you.

Remember to take it easy.
Remember to just slow down.
Remember to keep a Sabbath.
Remember who has given you this day.
Remember who has placed you where you are.
Remember who has given you the people you are with.
Remember whose you are.
Remember who you are.

Our services this summer should help you do these things.
Our focus is on Summer Pursuits, such as Goofing Off.

Have a good summer.
Pray for one another and rejoice in the moments you have.

See you in church,
Clyde