Summer Celebrations

Summer... the season of showers, nuptials and graduations; a time for gathering with family and friends in celebration of milestones, unions and reunions. I’m not hard-pressed to imagine romantic outdoor gatherings with fragrant flowers, luscious green grass and leaves fluttering in a soft breeze, all the while, hugs and kisses are given out more frequently than most days as guests are dressed in their Sunday best. It’s loveliness at its finest. In my mind’s eye, I see tables laden with selections of savory tea sandwiches, an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables presented in creative designs and more delectable desserts than one can imagine. Chilled drinks like lemonade and rhubarb slush complete the mouth-watering buffet.

If you listen in, you’ll likely hear, “How sad it is that the only time we see each other are at funerals and weddings.” This statement has always sat with me funny; I tend to think, if there weren’t celebrations to attend, most of us wouldn’t stop at all! We wouldn’t stop from our own inverted thinking of our bills, our work, our life... It makes me wonder if we’d ever buy gifts, stop from work, take time to travel, see family who live far distances away, or reminisce and celebrate. What a shame it would be if we didn’t have weddings and funerals! Celebrations are cause for celebration! I was pondering this as I worked with my sister in her yard in preparation for my nephew’s high school graduation. As he came home from school that day, I reminded him that this all was for him! It was about making his day extra-special! It was about finishing up some projects around the house and making things a little bit nicer for when company came to share in his accomplishments. It is about setting aside a few days to prepare delicious food (food is a necessary part of gatherings!), clean house and be ready for the gathering of friends and family who come to take part in his special day.

I think Jesus is the same way; He loves a celebration! In fact, He encourages us to gather together, be hospitable and enjoy time together. There are many celebrations and feasts that are recorded in the Bible and some of those traditions and important feasts are still celebrated today. What about the story of the prodigal son? Luke 15:22-24: “But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate.” There is also great celebration in heaven when someone gives their heart to Jesus Christ. “I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

I’m looking forward to my youngest nephew’s graduation. I am proud of his determination to complete his Grade 12. I am proud of his mom for persevering to get him through school. But I am also glad to celebrate this occasion together with him and family and friends. Something special happens when we come together to bless others. It is a time of closeness, an opportunity to speak destiny words over him, and a reason to commune and fellowship together. Celebrate the gatherings you have this summer!