I'm not a great fan of the rain, especially in summer but I confess, I'm glad the plants are enjoying a good old drink! And my water butts are filling nicely in (hopeful) preparation of the next dry spell!
You may know, I'm never happier than when the sun is shining!
I can relate to our tortoise who loves nothing more than to soak up the sun and bask in the heat of the day. We used to have a bearded dragon who was much the same in her vivarium.
This got me thinking about the seasons and the purpose and function of each one. We see lots of activity and growth in the spring and summer and far less in the autumn and winter.
"There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven" it says in Ecclesiastes.
This chapter doesn't specifically mention a time for work and a time for rest but I think that definitely is the case. Right back in Genesis, God set us the example of complementing a season of work with a season of rest, so I think it's safe to say, it's a good model to follow.
Let's go back to our reptiles. When they bask in the sun, it may look like they are just lazing around doing nothing but that heat is actually raising their body temperature so that they can do all that reptilian bodies need to do. Unlike the human form, their bodies do not internally create the heat needed for their cells and organs to operate. Laying in the hot sun is the way that they gather and absorb the energy needed to function. It's absolutely necessary for their existence. Without basking in the heat, they cannot find the energy they need to feed, to grow, to reproduce or to fight off predators.
We may not rely on the sun in the same way for our human bodies to function (though I confess, this reptilian existence would suit me just fine!!), recognising that a season of dormancy or a period of basking is necessary to re-energise us. Without it, our growth can be inhibited or stunted and we may not have the energy to fight off the metaphorical predators of physical or mental illness/anger/bitterness/stress/anxiety (add your 'predator' of choice)...
So I hope you have seasons of rest planned. Whether it is a regular Sabbath, a retreat maybe, or time away with family or friends, it's very good for us to rest, relax and remove ourselves from whatever we may deem to be our 'work', whether that be our paid employment, our vocation, mission or purpose.
The natural world would indicate it is necessary for our health, well being and growth.
With that in mind, I will be taking a couple of weeks away from Poema in July. We are praying that the current restrictions will not hamper our family plans, but whatever happens, we will enjoy a season of dormancy and basking!
Praying you find the opportunities you need to rest and bask in the Son.
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