“Praise the LORD!
Praise the LORD from the heavens! Praise Him from the skies!
Praise Him, all His angels! Praise Him, all the armies of heaven!
Praise Him, sun and moon! Praise Him, all you twinkling stars!
Praise Him, skies above! Praise Him, vapors high above the clouds!
Let every created thing give praise to the LORD, for He issued His command and they came into being.”
~ Psalm 148:1-5
After accomplishing domestic chores, my Amish friends and I like to sit under a shade tree to watch and listen to the sights and sounds of summer, especially when all of nature seems to sing praises to God—bees busily hum and collect nectar, robins sing their distinctive melodies, and breezes push softly through tree branches and the bushes below. Sitting quietly with Bibles open on our laps, the sky still light at day’s end, we can soak in the tranquility while reading Psalm 148 and other soothing verses—a very good way to unwind.
Amish and Mennonite families, as well as others, often plan large family reunions for the month of July, reconnecting and sharing the joy of seeing new babies and the youngsters growing “like weeds.” While it is less frequent among the Amish, many Mennonite families also plan Fourth-of-July celebrations on the farm, preferring that to crowded gatherings in the city.
Whatever your particular plans might be for this warm and sunny month, I hope you can make some time to just stop and drink in the beauty surrounding you. After all, God placed it there for our enjoyment, as well as to give us the peace we often need in these troubled times. And spending moments in nature while reflecting on God’s Word is a true blessing indeed.
I wish you happiness, too, for this month of celebration as we give thanks for our country’s freedoms.
Blessings and gratitude,
—Beverly Lewis
1) Thanks for your glowing remarks about the cover for The Christmas House. I agree, it is exceptionally beautiful. One of my readers even said the cover alone is worth the price of the book! Here are the retailers where you can preorder:
Baker Book House (40% off and free US shipping through September 1)
2) I've been enjoying the summer weather here (the near constant rains have finally stopped!), while relaxing on our deck, walking and/or hiking around the beautiful trails near and far, or picnicking at Dave's and my favorite spots, embracing the peaceful landscape of foothills and lakes. And also thinking ahead to a possible new story idea, as God leads. Thanks very much for your keen interest in my writings, my research, and my daily life...and your prayers. I appreciate you so much!
