AUGUST is traditionally holiday time, a time to stop, rest, relax and be ready for the onslaught of autumn, new schools, university, new jobs, a new football or rugby season and whatever else comes into its being. A time for a fresh start.

The exceptionally hot and dry weather has made life very uncomfortable for a lot of people, which is certainly not conducive to enjoying the holidays.

However, one man’s fear is another man’s prayer. Aside from the extremities and parch-ness in the land, the hot weather is like marmite, you either love it or hate it!

I love it, but I am mindful of those who do not. In conversation at an event a few days ago I was cautious of commenting about the summer, when suddenly a lady said, it has been the most wonderful summer for sitting outdoors, watching outdoor productions, BBQs, out walking not having to worry about jumpers or just chatting with friends, idling the time away.

Isn’t that the summers we knew of old in years gone by? Life has become so busy, it is hard to see where things are going wrong. During lockdown there was an opportunity to stop, nature was redressing itself but suddenly in the blink of an eye, things returned to a frenzy once more.

Roughly 2,500 years ago in the Old Testament the prophet Joel warned of droughts, famine and devastation, if people did not return to God and follow his laws for living, an alarm was sounding, but there was repentance and order restored.

Christians, and indeed other religions believe that God, humanity and the wider creation are inextricably linked, once more the alarm is sounding because things have got seriously out of balance.

We are all experiencing the effects of climate change, a growing ecological crisis and the devastating effects of human greed and selfishness. Devastating wild fires, crop failure, drought, corruption and wars beyond belief.

A complete turnaround is needed, a sincere repentance for the part we have played in creation’s imbalance with a deep heartfelt desire to turn to God with our whole being.

Reordering ourselves and priorities may enable us to return to a way of uncomplicated living, contentment, and time to stop, acknowledging God as the source of all life.

Whilst the sun is hot rest in the shade but try to embrace the peace and beauty around us, giving thanks for all the good things, enjoying the cooler evenings, sharing and caring for one another.

If you feel able, join me in this prayer: Dear Lord, help us each renew our relationships with you, each other, and our world. Amen.

Rev Sandra Collier

Team Deacon

Crediton Benefice Community