Longest Day and Shortest Night

Scripture

“‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’” (Matthew 11:28-30 NIVUK) 

 Longest Day and Shortest Night

June 21st is identified as the summer solstice – more daylight and less darkness on that day than any other this year. As we enter summer with all our hopes for rest and relaxation, recreation and renewal packed together we also begin the process of diminishing daylight each day until we reach balance around September 21st.  

It affects us in funny ways – celebrate the light and occasionally feel disappointment in its fleeting character. But most of us have had times in life when the longest and lightest day had nothing to do with the tilt of the earth. And the converse is also true – we’ve had some nights that seemed to never end.  

Our inner person sometimes is in the shadow of fear, illness, grief, loss of identity, financial insecurity – you can add your own inner shadows. But mostly we put a brave sunny face to our world and only good friendships and supportive circles can allow us to be real about what is going on. 

Mostly, the light of disclosure and the love of God and others can put things in perspective and become more manageable than when we are carrying it alone. Let’s enjoy the sunshine of truth and friendship – sharing our burdens with another is often a gift to them. The loneliest people are those who have no one else’s burdens to share.  

A Prayer for Today

Grant us vision, Lord,
To see what we can achieve
To reach beyond ourselves
To share our lives with others
To stretch our capabilities
To increase our sense of purpose
To be aware of where we can help
To be sensitive to your Presence
To give heed to your constant call
(David Adam, Power Lines Celtic Prayers About Work)