The Narrative: High Summer is the season of "Stillness and Heat." The frantic growth of spring is over; now the fruit must ripen in the sun. It is a time of endurance and preservation. It reminds us of the Refining Fire—how the heat of life's trials is necessary to sweeten the fruit and prepare it for storage.
Endurance: Staying faithful when the "heat" is on.
James 1:12
"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life."
Prayer for the Season:
"Lord, help me to stand firm in the heat of the day. Let Your sun ripen the fruit of my character, making me sweet and lasting for Your Kingdom."
Foods: Salsa, Gazpacho, Corn on the Cob, BBQ.
Activity: Canning. The kitchen gets hot, but the jars of "summer" stored on the shelf are worth it.
The Tomato Sandwich: Celebrate the first ripe tomato with a simple ceremony—bread, mayo, salt, and sun-warm fruit.
The Question: "Why do tomatoes need the hot sun to turn red? What would happen if they stayed in the shade?" (Hint: They stay green and hard!).