Isn’t it funny how we complain about the cold and rain all winter, then we hit July, and suddenly we complain about the heat and dryness? Humans struggle with now. We quickly become fixated on the irritants in our lives, always wanting something more or different, rarely satisfied. What is it that keeps us from embracing the joy in our daily lives? One would expect us to learn to be grateful when it’s here, yet it always seems to catch us off guard.
It just goes to show you it’s always something. That is a familiar human quality. Look at Adam and Eve. How could they be so dissatisfied with a perfect garden paradise and regular access to the God of the universe? And they still couldn’t resist getting some of what the tree offered. We may even convince ourselves, “I wouldn’t be so stupid.” But alas, not only would we have been unable to resist, but we still too often make very similar choices today! As we celebrate this summer, a season of fireworks and sunshine, let’s challenge ourselves to focus on something we read a lot but too often forget:
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. — Philippians 4:4-8 (NIV)
Summer is a gift. Celebrate it and enjoy its glorious fireworks and sunshine.