By Pastor Bridget Sheely
Racine/Sumner Center UMC,
Stewartville UMC Children’s Ministry Coordinator
Well folks, here we are, sandwiched between the freshness of spring and the glory of the harvest. Widely known as the dog days of summer. Why is that? Well, one theory that dates back to the Greek and Roman times is that in these hot, humid and dry days of August it is said to be the days when the sea would boil, the wine would spoil and the dogs would go mad. As it turns out, the canine connection probably refers to Sirius (the Dog Star) in the constellation Canis Major (large dog). It is mentioned in Greek poetry as far back as 700 BC. At that time Sirius (the brightest star in the northern hemisphere) was seen to rise just before or at the same time as the sun during this season. But since then the earth has pivoted on its axis and we no longer see this celestial moment. Whatever the theory, here we are, in the quiet calm of the year. Our days have slowed down along with our ambitions. I like to think of this time of year as “the God days of summer.” These slower moving days gives us an opportunity to find some quiet times of self-evaluation and discernment to ponder the all-important questions we rarely find time to ponder. Where have I been? Are there situations that I could have handled differently? Who do I want to be? And the most important question – Am I living up to my Christian heritage and responsibilities?
In the book of Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV it is written, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Sadly, gathering together in worship has been on the decline for many years. Why? Why is it so easy to disregard one of the most important and connectional aspects of living as a child of God? From Genesis to Revelations, God makes it very clear that our soul purpose is to live and glorify Him. We call Him into our lives and homes continually, yet we brush off our responsibility to go to His house and praise His name. We say things like, “My schedule is too full, I’m not into organized religion, I don’t like the politics of the church.” Friends, we are missing the whole point! Gathering in worship is not about you it is about God. It is our responsibility, as His children, to make the time, gather with each other, praise Him who is our one and only Lord and help each other grow into our Christian maturity.
So, I implore you, in these “God days of summer,” gift yourself with some time spent in conversation with God. Determine if there may be some adjustments you need to make and love yourself enough to make them. For today we sit in the quiet days, but the harvest is coming. Are you fully prepared?