To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. – Colossians 1:29
But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded. – 2 Chronicles 15:7
Don’t just laze around in the summer sun, know that there is still work to do because the summer is short – Hesiod
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
The blazing Central Texas sun has a way of slowing everything down. As the Austin temperatures climb into August—with our forecasted average daily highs reaching a scorching 98 degrees, and with “feels like temperatures” much higher – our natural instinct is to seek the nearest air conditioning, rest, and hit the pause button on our daily routines. While physical rest is a necessary, God-given gift, this relentless Lone Star heat can sometimes bring a spiritual sluggishness along with it. It is easy to let the literal doldrums of dog-day afternoons seep into our hearts, causing us to slacken our pace in faith, prayer, and fellowship.
But various scriptures call us to a different rhythm, even when the thermometer peaks. In Galatians 6:9, the Apostle Paul encourages us: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Spiritual growth and community impact don’t take a summer vacation, even when the Triple-Digit heat tempts us to stay indoors. The seeds of kindness, service, and devotion we plant in our local community during these hot months are quietly taking root, preparing for a beautiful harvest in God’s perfect timing.
When the temptation to coast carries over into our spiritual lives, we must lean into holy discipline. Paul echoes this sentiment in 2 Thessalonians 3:13, writing, “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.” Serving others can feel exhausting when the Texas days are long and the air is heavy, but our perseverance is a testimony to the strength Christ provides. Our mission to love our neighbors, support our church family, and share the gospel across Austin remains urgent, no matter the season.
To combat this seasonal lethargy, we need to intentionally stoke the fires of our faith, fighting fire with fire. Romans 12:11 offers the perfect antidote to the summer slump: “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Spiritual fervor is not a temporary emotional high; it is a steady, burning commitment fueled by the Holy Spirit. We maintain this zeal by staying rooted in the Word and open to the Spirit, gathering faithfully for worship, and actively looking for small, cool ways to serve those around us.
Let us challenge ourselves to finish this summer strong. Instead of letting the August heat drain our spiritual energy, let it remind us of the warmth of God’s love and the light of His truth. Keep checking in on your neighbors, supporting local relief agencies, showing up for worship and fellowship events, and pursuing your personal devotion time. Our intense Central Texas heat will eventually break, and when autumn arrives, may it find our Austin congregation faithful, vibrant, and ready for the harvest ahead.
Peace,
Pastor Layne
