With the closing of May comes the unofficial beginning of summertime. Some folks eagerly began their summer activities a few weeks ago, while others use this weekend to begin their enjoyment. Some use this season for pleasure, others use it to complete projects of various sorts around their homes. While many will appreciate the sunshine and warmth, others will desire cooler temperatures and complain about the sweat on their brows. Some will remember to dress modestly while others will expose their bodies without shame as if they are something to be admired by lustful hearts. But it is summertime.

   Jeremiah 8:20 expresses my musing well: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” Summertime for Israel at that time should have been one of preparation, but they had squandered their time, and now, as Jerimiah says, the harvest is past, the summer ended, and they were not saved from their peril. Likewise, so many souls today squander their opportunities to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18) and strengthen their souls in preparation for Judgment Day. So many frivolously waste their time engaging in the pleasures and toils of the flesh without regard for the needs of the soul! “Oh, that’s just the preacher talking! You’re always wanting souls to be more faithful to bible studies and worship services. This is summertime! Let me enjoy it!” No, dear friend, these are the musings of a man who understands Paul’s statement, “Redeeming the time for the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5)

   I muse on the lessons farmers teach. They plant this time of year so they can anticipate a harvest in a few months. They cut hay in preparation for winter. They strengthen their fences in anticipation of growing herds or flocks. I muse on the lessons taught by construction workers: building while the weather is fit; repairing roads while the weather allows greater improvements. I also muse on the lessons taught by faithful Christians during the summer. Many will engage in gospel meetings and summer bible studies. Those who plan to travel will first plan where they will worship with other faithful Christians as they refuse to forsake the assembling (Hebrews 10:25). They do this in preparation for Judgment Day (Acts 17:31)

   Whatever you plan for the summertime, prayerfully you will carefully consider Jeremiah 8:20 and not waste the spiritual opportunities abounding during these few months. If the Lord wills that the harvest passes and summer ends, the greatest of all important matters still must be accomplished. Are you saved? (1 John 5) If not, why not?