Soul-Soothing Plan for the Summer

It’s summer, and that means the heat index could be maxed out so everything is wilting, or it could be raining cats and dogs with thunder and lightning thrown into the mix. (I wonder who came up with the phrase raining cats and dogs. What does it even mean? OK. Back to our regularly scheduled program.)

Just for a moment, let’s imagine that it’s a perfect, beautiful summer day. There’s no humidity so your hair isn’t frizzing or going limp. The sun is warm, but the cool breeze invites you to tilt your head back and close your eyes.

You’re enjoying an ice cold glass of lemonade in the summer shade, waiting for Jesus to show up. Yes. Jesus is coming to sit with you.
(You just softly whispered, God, what am I going to do? And that’s an invitation He always responds to.
Isn’t that amazing? And He does, you know, show up. Always.)

When He slides His lawn chair up next to you, He’ll notice that even with the no-frizz hair and cool breeze, you aren’t really settled. You want to sit and relax, but there’s a lot going on in your heart and your mind. He knows that, and He is filled with compassion.

He knows exactly what you’re going through, how you’re feeling, what you’re worried about, and what scares you. Wow.

Here’s what I think He’d say to you as you sit in the shade …

You know that weight that’s sitting on your shoulders?
Carrying it around 24/7 isn’t going to make it go away. Or make it easier to move through.
Release it. Let me take care of it. Breathe again.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

You know that big deal thing you accomplished this week that may not be such a big deal thing in the eyes of others? I’m so proud of you. You did it!
Celebrate it. Like it’s the biggest deal in the world. Because today, it is.

For I know the plans I have for you … plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

You know that to-do list that could wrap itself around the Indy 500 track twice?
You can set it aside for a bit and focus on people, happy places, and memory making. Work will always be there. People won’t.
Pause. Reset. I’ll show you how to get done what needs to get done.

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go. (Psalm 143:8)

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. (Psalm 23:3)

Dear friend. Jesus always hears your voice. He cares about your heart. He will answer your prayers and meet your needs.
Invite Him into your summer days. He will show up.

Work sensibly. Play frequently. Rest peacefully.
Sounds like a soul-soothing summer plan, doesn’t it?