Summer Steve's Desk

“In the sweet O’ Summertime” After such a long, cool, wet spring, we are all looking forward to the warm, dryer weather of summer, which officially begins on June 21st and ends on September 22nd. Summertime in Indiana is a time of extremes, especially extreme weather. Unfortunately, we only have to wait a few hours for it all to change without warning. But one thing is for sure, summertime means a change in our regular routines, which can be a good thing.

George Gershwin’s “Summertime” song contains the lyrics, “Summertime And the livin' is easy; Fish are jumpin' ”. These words invoke the thought of sitting on the creek bank with a pole in the water, watching the water pass by without the care of catching a fish. But, summer is all about the weather and leisure.

God gave us a season for a reason, and for those of us in the northern climates, we definitely appreciate the change of seasons. Seasonal change is hope, isn’t it? It gives us something for which to look forward with anticipation of better weather and better times.

God wants us to enjoy this world and to have times of leisure. Remember that his plan for us was to have an entire day every week devoted to rest and worship. Though season also signals to work – planting, tending, and harvesting. God knows what we need – rest and enjoyment.

As you go about your activities, praise God that you can do and go this summer. And don’t forget to take him with you! Find a church at your destination and experience God’s family there. Take communion and devotional items for you and your families, especially kids. Have your service of praise on the creek bank or the mountain top and experience what awaits us.

​Enjoy your summer and give God the glory!