Planning for the Summer

March is probably the month which has more weather-related sayings than any other. One such is the saying that the month comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. There have certainly been years in which March has been subject to some severe weather events. 

Not many years ago, Newcastle-upon-Tyne was completely cut off by deep snow on one of the Sundays in March. Roads were impassable and it was a great struggle to fulfil essential commitments, such as preaching engagements.  All public transport came to a halt.

In more recent years, the weather in March has been more lenient. It has been cold, but traffic has moved about with relative ease. However, it is good to be reminded that man is not in control of the weather, and suddenly we can be overwhelmed by unexpected weather events. 

What applies to the weather also applies to a great many other areas of life. We may make many plans, but there is no guarantee that we will be able to fulfil them. We need to exercise humility and add “the Lord willing” to every plan. Only God’s plans are guaranteed to take place. All events in the world are subject to God’s permission.

Man creates devices which slightly change our experience of time. For instance, we put the clocks forward an hour on March 30, and begin what is known as British Summer Time. This effectively gives us an hour more usable daylight, which goes on for several months and is enjoyable while it lasts. We can do much more in daylight than in darkness. More of the better weather comes in daylight and we can get out and about more freely. It is possible to plan holidays in the British Isles, and to spend longer tending the garden.

As we plan our summer, let us remember that we are in the hands of God, both politically and personally. Let us remember to live each day to the glory of God, and to be grateful for every experience of God’s kindness and provision.