View From the Manse 2.0

 

Summer is nearly upon us! Some of us have been waiting many months for sweaty, barefoot mornings in the garden and hot afternoons on the porch. We are so grateful for the changes that come with this season. We might watch some baseball or go swimming. We have some vacations planned and some family picnics in our future and we are excited.

          As the season changes, may I make some suggestions as to how you might continue to grow spiritually this summer?

          First, stay in the Word. Some of you are in Bible studies that take a summer break. And while I am glad that you have a little latitude in your schedule now, may I encourage you to find time to be in the Bible on your own? Read a short book of the Bible over and over this summer. Or get to know the pastoral epistles inside and out (1 & 2 Thessalonians; 1 & 2 Timothy, and Titus). Download an app that will guide you through some studies (Youversion has some wonderful and free options). Pickup an Encounter with God or a Discovery from the table in the church lobby.

          Second, try a new venture in devotional study. If you have never fasted, take a few days this summer and fast; seeking the Lord with a focused mind. Take prayer walks. Begin a devotional journal. For many years, as a church, we do what are called summer experiments. They might be changes to the worship service or new songs. Perhaps you can try some summer experiments of your own.

          Third, prioritize church. I know that you love to camp or spend time out on the boat or have the summer weekends to yourself. I want to encourage you to keep your church family in the forefront of your heart and calendar. This might mean you join us virtually some Sundays. This might mean you visit another church while you are out of state. The words of Hebrews apply in the summer as much as they do in the school year; “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

          Fourth, intentionally reach out to a friend. Find someone who you haven’t had time for recently and reconnect. Get coffee or a meal and tell them about the challenges you have faced recently. Ask them how you can pray for them. Encourage each other in the faithfulness of the Lord.

          Finally, read a book about the good news of Jesus. Read God is by Mark Jones or With by Skye Jethani. Think about God and his glory, goodness, and grace.

          J I Packer said, “Move slowly enough to think deeply about God.” I know this is hard to do. Perhaps, in the summer months, you can set aside some time to do just that.

          Bryan Fitzgerald, Pastor (bryan@argylepresbyterian.org)

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