Good morning…
As a kid, I remember the summer season starting Memorial Day weekend, as we finished the school year, and ending on Labor Day weekend, before we returned to school. Now as an adult, I wonder, “When does summer really begin?”
Googling the question I learn a few new things. Actually, the summer season can be tracked through either astronomical or meteorological changes. The meteorological summer officially begins on Monday, June 1, 2026, and runs through August 31, based on the three-month temperature cycle used by meteorologists and climatologists.
The astronomical summer, indicated by the summer solstice, begins on Sunday, June 21, 2026. This date marks the longest day of the year, providing the maximum amount of sunlight for the Northern Hemisphere. According to the astronomical calendar, the following dates begin the four seasons in 2026.
March 20: First day of spring 2026
June 21: First day of summer 2026
Sept. 22: First day of fall 2026
Dec. 21: First day of winter 2026
So, whether we officially mark the beginning of summer on June 1st or June 21st, this final week of May offers us an in-between grace period, before the spring rains eventually pour into the heat of summer.
The day and the night are both Yours—You fashioned the sun, moon, and all the lights that pierce the darkness. You have arranged the earth, set all its boundaries; You are the Architect of the seasons: summer and winter (Psalm 74:16-18, VOICE).
With God, let’s prayerfully reflect on where we are this final week of May.
What one high high and one low low have marked this spring season for you?
What lasting lesson might the Architect be trying to teach you as spring tips into summer?
…Sue…
