Son Bathing


 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

This very clever play on words is not mine. I am borrowing from Brennan Manning. Given what I know of him, he would be happy to share it with me and let me share it with you. After all that is the whole point of “Son bathing.”

          It seemed very appropriate that I would come across this term in a season when those of us who live in the sunny South are exhibiting signs of outdoor activities. We see glowing skin from days at the beach or pool as well as tans from hard work in the great oven that  is Florida in the summer. We see these changes in complexion and we comment, we inquire.  Have you been to the beach? Pool?

          How lovely it would be if as a result of our Son bathing people were seeing, commenting and asking? You look content in the light of all that is going on around you. Why is that? What a great opener for us to share the love and joy of Jesus Christ and to invite others into that love.

          Just the other day my poor sweet grandson was not feeling well. After a couple of days of being housebound, my husband and I suggested that he come outside for a bit and get some fresh air and sun. It seemed to help.

          My household/family has been in a bit of a difficult season lately. Around me are several relationships and circumstances that just aren’t right. It has been draining and there has been a huge temptation to simply give into the negative chatter that the enemy puts in my head. Thanks be to God I haven’t done that. Instead I have gone to the throne, to the Word of God and to prayer. The circumstances haven’t changed; in truth some are worse.  

          When my grandson seemed to need a boost we took him into the sun. Today I learned that I have been Son bathing through my difficulties and that has certainly helped me retain my joy.  I hope and pray that my light, the reflection of Jesus’ light is shining so that those around me can see it and praise our Father in heaven.

          Son bathing! Try it. It’s pretty amazing.

           

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