It is summer. I like summer but two years ago when we measured 111 degrees Fahrenheit in June and my friend, Jane, was one of those deaths, I know heat is a danger. I should have considered air conditioning when I moved about seven years ago but on a hot evening one could always go out to a cold dinner or walk about CostCo with a freeze in your hand. The weather has heated up for about three seasons. I’m not sure how we discuss global “warming” when the winters are getting colder. Weather changes. It always has but I have finally developed a strategy – close all of the blinds. I originated from Southern California and I like light and bright. It is hard to tell the time of day with closed blinds. The idea is to open everything in the morning and when the day begins to heat then close it all. Let the cold in. Again, had I known of this trend I would have purchased an air conditioner instead of outfitting my closets. I like an organized closet but I like comfort more. The weather will change as we near fall and I will find something else to complain about. I should also mention that newer construction has tighter “seams” and the insulation codes should help but, in this case, not.
How might this strategy work with faith? Let God in for part of your life but not at certain times? Close the blinds, so to say. Have a secret life? I have been like you, going through a metamorphosis. I spent a very cold winter wearing a hat and gloves each day. I was out in the weather and happy about ministering to people. There is nothing better than serving. I smile as I think of it. I have now been home for three months. I’m still catching up and connecting and traveling again. I think my days have purpose but I miss the joy and excitement. I like having a refrigerator to call my own and a car to go places these days. Friends and family – nothing better. The sun was shining through the winter weather in my heart because it was like God was washing everything. He was ever-present as He is today but I feel spoiled and foolish at some choices I’m making (like eating the leftover ice cream from last nights guest). I don’t need it but why not? It is in my freezer. I think I can do better. I can manage blinds, hats, insulation, and gloves no matter where I am and what God’s present assignment is for me. I can make strategy about souls and not my personal comfort. I can do this still. I can finish strong. So can you.