August – the height of summer on our perpetual motion calendars. Yet, in Nature it is the beginning of Fall. A contradiction? A disconnect somewhere? No… merely a crossroads in time as the seasons overlap.
Lammas-tide, when the orange blaze of the setting sun begins a slow descent over fields of golden wheat, marking the first of Autumn’s harvest. Ripened stalks waving in the breeze seem to bid a last goodbye to Summer, even as they herald that first hint of Fall, now occasionally manifest in the early morning air.
Oh, there will still be many hot and sunny days yet to come. Many quiet and lazy times; when the only disturbance in the stultifying heat is the busy chirp of a willful cicada. And moments when thought and reflection are the only activity indulged on an oven-baked afternoon.
We have traveled far from the once delicate blossoms of spring… to the tree boughs now laden with fruit, ripe for the picking. So… where does the road take us from here? When the quiet, still heat of summer gives way to the crisp application of Fall; with its calendar-filled days promoting a fast track of scheduled events, meetings, engagements, classes, errands, et. al., Covid permitting of course.
This convergence of seasons and the crossroads it has created, offers a chance to reflect upon our own journey thus far in the year. The question is, in what direction are we called? Which of the paths beckoning is worthy of our time, attention and efforts?
“And s0 the Lord says: ‘Stand at the crossroads and ask;
Ask for the ancient paths,
Ask where the good way is, and walk therein,
And you will find rest for your soul.”
(Jer. 6:16)
He travels with us; regardless of season, decisions made, or direction taken. Guiding us as we allow, for He knows The Way far better. A simple reminder, that wherever you may go, or whatever you may do – He is there. That we might find rest for our souls when there is a need, and light for the path should the road become darkened or confusing, amidst the many challenges to face.
August- the height of summer – and we give thanks; rejoicing in the providence of His abundance, both spiritually and materially. The long, hot days are leading us steadily towards the cooler, more refreshing season of Autumn. And we seem in relatively good shape thus far, all things considered.
So, what is the harvest reaped here on a personal level? Something with which to nurture our own life’s circumstance… and perhaps that of a family member or friend? Food for thought, as it were…