End of Summer
Father in Heaven,
With August’s arrival,
The morning sunlight beams
Come later through the windows.
May we rest in your great faithfulness,
Remember that your steadfast love never ceases;
And Your mercies never come to an end.
Each meal marks the ending
Of another gracious growing season—
Heirloom tomatoes, summer squashes, and Palisade peaches.
May the taste preach of Your goodness,
And the harvest be a reminder of Your grace.
Each afternoon, a palate of color punctuates summer—
The extravagant elegance of dinner plate dahlias,
The salmon shade of sunset hyssop,
The bold beauty of black-eyed Susans—
May we hear their silent message,
To not be anxious for our tomorrows.
Each conversation has an undertow,
The changing tide of thought
Toward new schools and new schedules.
May we trust You will pilot us
Through tempestuous seas and home to shore.
Each evening the warmth of the land remains
But unperceptively the light shrinks and days shorten.
May we make an altar with the ending of this season,
May we in gratitude number the goodness of our days,
May we raise a glass in celebration of this summer,
And thank You for Your kindness, love, and grace.
Amen.
