“A PRAYER FOR NAVIGATING
THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER”
By Kenneth Sullivan
(All scriptures in this prayer are quoted from the New King James Version of the Holy Bible).
Dear God, our Heavenly Father,
We enter the dog days of summer, a period from July 3rd to August 11th marked by oppressive humidity and excessively high temperatures, producing scorching days of heat.
The fierce, unrelenting heat reminds us of our physical fragility, making us vulnerable to the dangers of heat cramps, exhaustion, stroke, and severe sunburns*.
Yet, since the beginning of creation, You have established summer, promising that while the earth remains, the season and its heat shall not cease (Genesis 8:22). In this time, Your power brings the South wind (Psalm 78:26) to the Northern Hemisphere, bringing hot temperatures and high humidity. Yet we thank You that Isaiah 25:4 says You have been a shade from the heat. Therefore, Heavenly Father, we will trust You as our protective shelter and our cool place of refuge, as we navigate these sweltering days.
Lord, we also lift up those who care for Your creation during this parched season. Give strength and wisdom to our farmers as they tend to the vulnerable soil, crops, and heat-stressed livestock. Guide our park and forest rangers as they protect our parks, woods, forests, and their wildlife from the threats of fire. Grant strength to our aquaculturists as they manage the waters and aquatic life through intense heat. May You bless their stewardship.
Isaiah promises a tabernacle for shade in the daytime from the heat (Isaiah 4:6). Let this divine vision inspire our communities. Stir the hearts of our neighborhood churches to open their doors to the homeless, the wanderer, and the weary. Let their sacred space become tangible havens of cool air and safety from the excessive heat.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
*For signs of heat illness and safety tips, visit ready.gov/heat.