SUMMER’S ARRIVAL

 

Although the official start of summer doesn’t arrive until later this month, school is out and the weather is getting warmer. That sounds like summer to me. As a child, I always enjoyed summer. It was baseball season, I was able to sleep in (till about 8 when Mom let me), there was no school, and I could do whatever I wanted (after cutting the grass and other chores). Another thing I remember was that Dad’s vacation was always the week of the fourth of July. We never did much traveling, but we would go every year to a Braves baseball game. For many of us, summer is a time of freedom. This is the time many families take their vacations. While it is good to get away, it is also important to remember a few things.

 

First, the congregation is depending on you. The summer months usually shows the lowest attendance. There is nothing wrong with going away, but not too often. Remember, you still have responsibilities here. We still need Bible class teachers, song and prayer leaders, nursery attendants, etc. Those who plan and schedule these things need to know they can depend on you. When you will be away and will miss an assignment, be sure to let someone know so a replacement can be found in a timely manner.

 

Second, there is no vacation from the Lord. Vacations are often times of sightseeing, visiting amusement parks, sleeping late and relaxing (a little harder if you have children). However, you also need to include time for the Lord. Maintain a similar pattern to what you have at home. Attend the services, make time for family devotionals, and spend time together as a family in prayer. Those left in the home congregation will probably never know, but God will.

 

Third, don’t use the Lord’s money to pay Mickey Mouse. Your obligation to give as you have prospered does not change because you are on vacation. If the Lord prospers you so you can have a vacation, remember Him and His church. I mentioned earlier that attendance figures are usually lowest in the summer. Unfortunately, the same is often true with our giving. Give extra before you leave or when you return, or give it to someone to place in the basket while you are gone, but give.

 

Enjoy your summer with your family, but remember the Lord has given you the summer, the family, and the ability and means to enjoy both. Don’t leave Him out of your summer plans.

--Lamar