"Have a Shadow?"

We're home in TEXAS!  Oh, the marvelous sunsets.... oh, the dreadful heat!!  We haven't even reached scorching summer temperatures with repeated days close to 110 degrees.  Yet, this week, even this morning on a typical walk, I found myself seeking shade from the baking sun.  Just 20 seconds of shadow under miniature, neigborhood trees provided relief.  Also, on a pool visit with Kelly and friends, I had to find a shaded spot or their fun would have come to an unwelcome end after 30 minutes.  While I'm not the most fun Mom, even I know that would be torture for such sweet girls.  So, I found the perfect tree and relaxed with a good book by the pool, often distracted by thoughts of our time on a Greek island.  Throughout the week, reflections of Santorini filled my mind.  It was a most refreshing time away.  Gratitude overwhelmed us as we regretfully threw away trip documents.  Information about the island- sights, dining and travel tips were no longer needed.  All of that anticipation and preparation--- DONE!  We are left with a lifetime of memories and photo images to rehearse in our minds.  Even the customary Shutterfly photo book is finished and on its way to our home.

This morning, while seeking bits of shade on my walk, I recalled one of my favorite moments in Santorini and it made me smile.  On our very first morning, while overlooking the Aegean Sea and after enjoying a generous Greek breakfast , I rested on a lounge chair with my book.  The 70 degree temperature was ideal and the sun gently warmed my pasty white skin.  I thought to myself, "This is perfection!"  Just moments later, a Greek gentleman on the hotel staff popped by and kindly suggested, "Have a shadow?"  He wanted to put up the large umbrella to offer comfort and protection from the sun.  I declined his offer and thanked him happily.  Now this luxurious service is not something I'm acquainted with and I found it quite amusing and refreshing.  While the sun rays on a Texas summer day make you want to die, there was no need for refuge on that beautiful morning. 

Now, as we return to familiar routines at home, including much activity and the increasing Texas heat,  I am overwhelmed with thanksgiving to the Lord for his steadfast love and his goodness to us.  He graciously provided a restful and romantic time together.   Psalm 36 captures some of my thoughts after a week surrounded by the beauty of His creation.  With much praise, my soul finds peace and refuge from the worries of this life in the shadow of almighty God.   

"Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.  Your righteousness is like the mountains of God: your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O LORD.  How precious is your steadfast love, O God!  The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.  They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights.  For with you is the fountain of life...."