HOW many times over that week of intense heat did you catch yourself saying or someone said to you: “Hot enough for you?!”

In the UK our topmost subject of conversation is the weather, but my experience of the heatwave was that the novelty wore off quite quickly and irritability set in. Our homes weren’t designed for such intense heat and it was hard to get to sleep or feel comfortable. I even found myself seeking out air conditioning in supermarkets and in the car!

But alongside the negatives, the heatwave did give me a moment to pause; not only because my body had to slow down, but to think about those who really were suffering from the extreme weather both here and throughout the world. From those who have manual jobs like construction workers and tradespeople, to the elderly and vulnerable and farmers across the world.

I was also reminded once again that we cannot ignore that these intense weather patterns are a further wake-up call regarding our planet. Caring for creation is a fundamental Christian responsibility, and this heat reminded me that our lifestyle choices matter and that looking after our planet is a vital expression of loving our neighbours.

In the Bible, God is often described as a refuge from life's harshest elements. The prophet Isaiah describes God as "a refuge from the storm and a shade from the heat." Today, that ancient imagery feels incredibly relevant. When the modern world feels overwhelming, we are reminded to seek out the One who offers ultimate shelter and peace.

So next time the thermostat rises and there’s a heatwave, I hope I might be less irritable and better equipped to obey God’s call to love my neighbour and what that might look like: maybe to text or call in on neighbours who might be struggling or offer a delivery driver a glass of water at the door, buy an iced drink for someone who is homeless and point people to the open doors of our churches, for shade and sanctuary in the heat.

Let’s remember to love our neighbour and allow the heat to spark a different kind of warmth; by becoming a shade for others, we can bring a breath of fresh air to a sweltering world.

Rev Preb Alison Norris, Wellington