Song of Solomon 2:4

I am meditating on....

Song of Solomon 2:4

In so many ways, this world is a "hot mess". Wars, fightings, political jarring and unrest, unkindness, poverty, abuse, sadness and heartache.

But then again, this world is full of so much beauty and joy; kindness, love, compassion, creativity, and in many cases, people working together for a common good.

The commen denominator of the joy, are the principles found in God's Holy Word. Yet, not that all those who are practicing these values, are giving His Word the credit.

Many are not yet aware that eventually, any "warm fuzzies" derived from exercising His principles will come up void without a true and meaningful relationship with their Lord and Savior.

Recently we bought an umbrella for our patio table. (We should have done it sooner!!)

Oh, how I am enjoying the cool and inviting space it provides. As I sit under its banner of refreshing comfort, I have to marvel at what a difference a "banner" makes.

During the scorching hot summer days, as the sun beats down on our south facing patio, I could before only look out and enjoy it's beauty, but to venture into it's space was just too unappealing.The loveliness of this outdoor space became consigned to the cool of the morning or the respite of the evening and the descending of the sun.

But now, due to the new umbrella, I find myself sitting at the table, reading or working on a project, while enjoying the lovely view of the flower adorned area and the surrounding trees and yard. I love hearing the birds, and especially love the flowing caress of the summer breeze.

It reminds me of the verse that states "He brought me to His banqueting table and his banner over me is love." (Song of Solomon 2:4)

God's love makes all the difference. It provides the refreshing shade amidst the hot mess of this world, a place where we can be "in the world, but not of it", where we can delight in the beauty around us as well as be aware of the surrounding "hot mess" that sin has created.

It is not that one does not feel the heat of the world around us. Oh we do. But as we rest beneath the banner of God's love, caressed by the redeeming breeze of His grace, we find our Spirits revived and our perspectives changed.

And it when we are under "His umbrella" that we find direction as to how we can make a difference in this world by reaching out to others...

and bringing them too, under His banner of love!

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