Summertime

Little Johnny tossed a water balloon at Billy. A normal reaction from the teacher would be to reprimand Johnny, but this was not a normal day. Miss Jones cheered from the sidelines. Billy fell to the ground with laughter. The boys high-fived each other, and the next team lined up to enjoy this fun in the sun. Outdoor activities are common end-of-school-year events. Kids begin to daydream and plan what they will do for the summer. They are antsy during regular teacher sessions. Aware of this, teachers plan field trips and outdoor activities.I must admit I also have a bit of wanderlust going on. It is difficult to concentrate. Even coming up with a theme for this article frustrated me up to the deadline. Vacations are often scheduled for June, July, and August. We long to take the pressure off and just live. Fantasia emoted our feelings when she sang, “Summertime…and the livin’s easy…” For some reason, when the sun is out longer, and the weather is warmer, our hearts desire to play hooky from everyday living.

No matter what our plans include, I hope we all plan to keep God in our days. God makes everything seem better. The sky is bluer and the grass is greener. Problems fade as we focus on His goodness. The Creator of Summer can create a sense of freedom in our hearts when we trust in Him.

The best promise of all is that even when we take a break from our everyday humdrum lives, God never takes a break. Psalm 121:3b-4 says, “He that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” Most of us are not Israelites, but the concept holds true for New Testament Christians as well. Our God is an omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent God who is fully capable of being a vital part of His creation without the need of a vacation.

But for me…I hear a nap calling.

PRAYER: Lord thank You for the seasons You created for us to enjoy. For the warmth of summer, the fresh smell of flowers and the sun-kissed cheeks of children, I’m blessed to see Your handiwork all around me – You’re never sleeping or taking a break – but always keeping watch over me. Thank You!

“He that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep,” Psalm 121:3b-4 KJV.

Today’s devotion is by Kathy Carlton Willis, wife to Russ, pastor’s wife to many, author, editor, publicist and a certified CLASSeminars speaker. Kathy Carlton Willis Communications encompasses her many passions. Learn more about how she reflects Christ as she shines the spotlight on others at: http://kcwcomm.blogspot.com/ or http://www.kathycarltonwillis.com/.