The mountains or the ocean? Frequently, a family chooses one or the other as their traditional summer getaway. Both are awe-inspiring, reminding us of the height and depth of God’s love for us, the abundance of his blessings, and the steadfastness of his presence
Is it the vista that is inspiring? The majesty of God’s creation? Or the pause that we take – alone or with our family – to notice the beauty around us? Perhaps it is all three.
If we create space within ourselves, it stirs our desire to respond with generous and open hearts.
In today’s Gospel, in the same sea that is, on some days, shimmering and placid, Jesus is asleep in the boat when it is buffeted by a violent squall. Afraid for their lives, the disciples awaken Him, pleading to be saved. Jesus woke up and commanded the wind and sea to be at peace: “Quiet! Be Still!” (Mark 5:39) Immediately, “The wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” They were filled with great awe and said to one another, ‘Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?’” (Mark 5:40-41)
What will be Our Summer Stewardship response to God’s majesty and abundant love?
Whether alone or with family or friends, we can allow God to fill our hearts with peace, to contemplate together the beauty of nature and the wonder of creation that God has shared with us. As stewards of the Lord’s abundant gifts, we can use summer as a time to perceive and pray about all of God’s gifts, and to remember to return our very lives to Him.
In everyday summer ways, we can…
Refresh and reset this summer, “So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
