Growth and Change Amid Summer's Farewell
As summer begins to wane, I look back at the activities of camping, vacation, cicada songs in the backyard, and the airy shows of lightning bugs. Summer activity is energy, but the month of August encourages me to slow down and find spiritual meaning in the seasonal transition.
The passing of seasons reminds me of growth and change. From a Christian perspective, August holds a few significant celebrations, particularly for Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians. The Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary is a Feast Day Celebrated on August 15. This day is significant as it marks the belief that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken up, body and soul, into heavenly glory. It's a celebration of her unique role in the salvation of humanity.
Mary had solid love and wordless affection for her family and God. "Never once in the Gospels is Mary reported as saying to her son, 'I love you." Her love was evident from the way she acted, not so much by what she said but by what was done and sacrificed willingly. In the simplest tasks of daily life, she said, "Let it be done to me as you say" Luke 1:38.
And her earthly life is an example for today's loving mothers who are preparing for a seasonal change with their families. Much like today's loving mother and wife, Mary tended to family life. Such as preparing clothes for work or synagogue, setting calendars to prepare for the harvest, and meal planning when the light dims earlier than summer's setting. Mary's faith and obedience serve as a reminder to willingly show love, a wordless affection, for the family into daily routines, leading to a new season.
How are you doing this season? I encourage you to slow down and find spiritual meaning in August. Consider reflecting on past summer activities, pray, cherish family time before school starts, and prepare for the next season. Join me on her Feast Day in celebrating her with prayers of appreciation and hope for the next season. Pray with individuals who will be attending school, those with new job schedules, or with mothers who will be "stay-at-home moms" once again.
August in American culture is very much a "last hurrah" of summer. Kids are getting ready to go back to school, families are squeezing in last-minute vacations, and there's a general feeling of winding down from the peak of summer activities. Embrace the change and find an opportunity to grow spiritually.
I have provided a prayer for members of this website to aid with summer's farewell. You can access it here: 'Mary, Mother of Life'. I encourage you to take a moment to pray this prayer, either alone or with your family, as we prepare to bid summer goodbye.
