On the beach – 9 July 2018

Another sunny day, and three girls have come to the beach. (Three sisters at the beach, Joaquin Sorolla, 1908) Their heads are covered because of the hot sun, they hold hands as they come to the edge of the incoming sea. The paint on the canvas is thick and fluid, impressionistic in style. This is a picture that captures a moment, when the next wave is about to come in and cover the feet of the girls. The experience is fleeting and pleasurable, but at the same time memorable, like summer days spent in recreation.

This is an image of summer and holidays, childhood and pleasure. The picture also expresses some hesitancy, the girls are placed to the left of centre, and there is more space, sea and light to the right. Will they drop hands and move forward with freedom and confidence? Will they make the most of this moment?

We are in the holiday season now in Scotland, and warm weather encourages many to the coast. For those with resources the summer holidays are a time of fun and recreation, freedom and exploration. For those without, such pleasures are much more difficult to find.

Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:30-31

Thank you Lord for the times of refreshment and opportunities to go away on a holiday – so that we may be renewed in body soul and spirit. And Lord, we particularly thank you for this lovely summer holiday time, and pray that you would be with us as we spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the work-a-day week and take time to rest awhile.

Knowing Jesus – Holiday prayer

We ask for help for those who find this a difficult time –
for families who can’t afford to go away on holiday or on day trips;
for households who can’t manage to feed their children;
for children and young people who may be bored and restless.

The Children’s Society