A Full Summer Schedule

Most of us are fairly well into the summer rhythm... even though summer doesn't officially begin until later this week. When asked the question, "What do you have planned for the summer?" how do you respond?

I encourage you to pay attention to how you speak of your plans for the next two months, because it sets an attitude. I offer some points of consideration.


Do you describe your summer schedule as “full”? Or are you anticipating that your summer will be “busy”? It really has little to do with the frequency of events planned for each day or week. Hopefully your schedule simply reflects the values which frame your use of time that is somewhat less limited by school, work, or unfavorable weather. The way you see and speak of your summer schedule is influenced by your awareness of the abundant gifts flowing your way – being lavished upon you – every moment you take a breath.

Have you ever thought of God as “busy?” Did Christ teach that life in the kingdom would result in the life “busy?” I think not! Words like “joyful”, “abundant”, “full” and “miraculous” describe life in Christ. On the other hand, “busy”, “wild”, “hectic” “exhausting” are words we often hear when we describe our daily schedules.

I’m not necessarily saying “do less”. I am inviting you to be aware of God’s “more” in the midst of all that you do. Enjoy your family activities with gratitude, seeing how precious each family member is, even if the day to day road you walk with them is not always the smoothest. In addition to your regular practice of worship, and some sort of service to others, please consider “wasting” some time doing old fashioned things – things that cost nothing other than your willingness to do them. I venture to say the time will not be empty, wasted time, but rather full, abundantly joyful and glorious time that will feed and enliven each of you!

A Day in Summer Life

Some ways to appreciate the fullness of each day. Include in your schedule on or more of the following relatively “free” ways to spend some time.
Watch clouds, sprinkle the lawn or flower
bed by hand, shell peas, watch a chipmunk or
squirrel for at least 5 minutes, go fishing (alone, with a friend, child or grandchild—it doesn’t matter whether or not you catch fish) watch the sun or moon rise at your preferred golf course, watch the sun set at the Lake Front, sit at a campfire, use a hammock, swing, fly a kite, wash your car in the driveway, eat an ice cream cone, sit on the porch during a summer shower (or walk in the rain without an umbrella), wade in a river or stream, throw rocks into the water

Can you suggest other activities available to you which cost nothing at all but your willingness to take time to receive them?