Dear friends,
As we step into the month of July, we are entering the height of summer. In the coming weeks children will break from school, exams are over for the older year groups and families are starting to prepare for a holiday or at least some ‘down time.’
Things often start to slow down during July, the days are longer, there are more outdoor events, from music festivals to country shows, and there are more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Recently I was pottering in the garden when I came across something I’d never seen before- what looked like a hummingbird was hovering over some flowers- its small wings a blur. It was a hummingbird hawk moth, its proboscis feeding on the nectar of the flower, bright orange tips to its wings. I stood in wonder as I watched this small creature, marvelling at its intricacies and my heart turned to the one who created it.
It struck me later that we all need moments of awe and wonder- and perhaps as we get older, these moments get fewer and fewer. Perhaps because we get hung up in the daily routine of things, the mental ‘to do’ list, and all the other things that take up a day, and so perhaps the holiday season is an opportunity to slow down and take time to notice and marvel at what we see, turning to the one who made it all.
We give thanks for the beauty of creation and pray there may be moments of awe and wonder for all of us this summer. We also remember those who may not get a break – single mums and carers, those who work for emergency services, shift workers, and those on the margins. Lord, we pray there may be opportunities to slow down, that the wonder of your creation may break through into their lives and they too might know moments of awe and wonder enough to make them turn and praise you.
May those who need rest this summer, receive it, and whether its walking in the park, sitting in the garden or time away, may they be refreshed and renewed as they take a moment to marvel at all you have made.
And for you, may your Summer be a time of rest, refreshment, awe and wonder
Your friend and minister
Cath
JUST A REMINDER
The Monday meet up happens on Monday 13 July 5-6.30pm. It’s an intergenerational session with some round the table activities, food and friendship. It’s for all ages and anyone can come. Steven Mitchell, the synod children’s and youth enabler will be leading the session – hope to see you there.
Also we are looking for snacks and drinks for the event- if you can help with this, please see Cath or Rhona.
