Basking in the sun

We have a host of wildlife that frequents are patio: foxes, robins, the occasional deer, blackbirds that come in to the living room for sultanas, and a plethora of squirrels that will bang on the glass if we're not quick enough in sending out breakfast, lunch or supper for them.   

After a hearty munch on some peanuts one day this week (the squirrels not me),  I managed to catch this little one, lounging on our wall, and basking in the sun to warm himself and take a little rest after the frenzy of feeding.  He stayed there for ages not doing anything at all.

It got me thinking about 'basking in the sun' or more importantly, the 'Son'.
You know the sun is amazing.  It's is precisely positioned so we don't freeze or burn up.  It's huge and it's absolutely necessary for us; without it's heat and light we would die.   It is not always visible to us, but it is always there, constant and stable. 

This is like the Son of God, Jesus.  Without him true life is impossible... We can maybe exist for a short time but ultimately, without him, we don't live.  He gives us what we need for a full life, and his constant presence whether we see him or not, is both comforting and encouraging.

Sometimes when the sun is shining we run around and are busy, but there's something really lovely about just sitting in the sun and enjoying it, like the squirrel was.  It makes us feel better and life seems brighter when the sun is shining.

During these last few weeks, I have taken my bible into the garden early to read, or a book and a comfy chair outside in the cooler part of the day, and just sat in the sunshine. In life, we can be busy and out and about, but there's something beautiful and peaceful in those moments where we sit and simply bask in the light, glory and love of the Son.   

Psalms 84:11-12 (KJV)
For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusts in thee.