Everybody loves summer! It is an exciting time of the year when people emerge from their homes, kids are playing everywhere, picnics, vacations, and all the other fun things we dream of are happening. For us who live in the Midwest, we often imagine summer being 12 months long!

Have a Blast

Summer’s a time to unwind, have fun, and do the things you’ve dreamed of doing in warm weather. Fun in the sun is a great relaxer, stress reducer, and absolutely vital to our well-being. Make the most of your summer.

Have a Plan

Summer goes by in a flash. Plan for things you would like to do with your own family and for God’s family! For example, we always try to spend specific time with as many people as possible over the Summer. You could try to simply invite two or three neighbors over and get acquainted better. Go to a park together, walk together several times a week, start a Bible study, etc. My favorite Summer activity is grilling out. Why? Obviously the answer is meat.

Three Important Words

When building relationships, the three following words will make a big difference towards establishing a vibrant relationship:

Include—When you’re having a picnic, going to the park, doing things in the backyard, or playing with kids, include others in your neighborhood or social circle. You will be amazed at how easy it is to bring them into what you’re doing. People who are included quickly become good friends.

• Invest—Amy and I have been asking neighbors to church events and to small groups for years. We find the ones who generally accept our invitations are the ones in whom we have invested. Investing means we serve them when we get an opportunity, invite them over, talk to them when we see them outside their homes, and in general try to be good friends/neighbors.
• Invite—Don’t be hesitant to invite friends to your home, your locker room, or even to church. Our society has grown very shy about inviting others to do anything. Yet surveys continually show that people would respond positively if invited to almost any event. What an opportunity to share the joy in your heart by inviting them.

Share the Joy

Being in the family of God, we experience wonderful community with one another. We have been given an unspeakable joy that is bubbling out of us at all times. In living this out, the world will see this reflection of God through us. A good way to let people see it is to include, invest, and invite them. We believe that when people get to know us and the great God within us, they will desire the same.

Have a Great Summer

Make this a summer that goes beyond all others. Do special things with your family and friends. Make it a summer to bring the message of Jesus Christ to all your friends, neighbors and relatives who don’t yet know Him. These activities will bring lasting rewards that will put a big smile on your face and a joy in your heart.

Final Thoughts

We have good news to share. Take the time to get to know those around you this summer. You will be blessed, the Kingdom will be blessed, and the people in your circle of influence will be blessed.

It’s exciting to be part of a church that is continually gathering in people to advance the Kingdom. May God bless you this summer.

Blessings,
Bruce