June Showers

Dear Church,

Right alongside lilacs, and lupines, time optimism blooms in the summertime. It is a remarkable deception silently agreed upon by all Minnesotans. We believe that in ten weeks we can remodel our homes, restructure family life, nurture a garden, camp at every state park, and attend all the outdoor events and ceremonies. June is full of optimism and trips to Menards. Then comes the 4th of July and the usually subdued Minnesotan goes berserk. Flags and fireworks! Parades and Beer gardens! Fairs and Concerts! Here we go.

The manic frenzy of summertime finds us all. After months of gray skies and wooly long unders, we are ready to stuff winter into our back closet. As you find your grounding this summer, be kind to yourself. Perhaps you need a parade. Maybe you need a week-long camping trip. What if you finished or hired out that home remodeling project? Whatever it is, please check in with yourself. What are you prompted to do? Who are you inspired to be? As a Neighborhood community, we will have no service on Sunday, July 7. Please take the time to find rest and inspiration in another spiritual community, at home, or out at the lake.

Summer is miraculous in nurturing fast growth. May you nurture the growth in you and others. Brilliantly, summer gives long daylight to begin early or stay late. May you welcome the invitation of inspiration and rest. And, as the fireworks explode next week, may hope and joy bloom deep in your heart.

We will see you back at church on Sunday, July 14 at 10 am.

May our God of all hope fill you with life and peace,

Nikki Sauter