Summer's Here!

Let’s face it; we are way past spring fever!  Summer is in the air, and like our kids, we are ready for school to be out. In a few short weeks we will find ourselves in the current of summer activities, trips and cookouts.  Here are a few thoughts to consider before you take the plunge into the coming wave—literally.

Choose to grow.  When we are not intentional in our daily lives, an entire season can quickly get away.  None of us acquire new skills by accident.  Sometimes, we are fortunate to be in a situation where learning comes easy, but most of the time it takes intentionality on our part.  Don’t let this unique time of year escape you.  With the freshness of summer, allow something new to GROW!  Plan on exercising regularly, or mabye start something that pushes you.  The further from your comfort zone the deeper the experience can stretch you.  When fall rolls around, you will notice a renewed energy and a shifted perspective.   Oh stink--now that I’m telling you this I need practice it myself!

Stay connected.  The folks we work with all know how crazy youth ministry is in the summer and for the most part I hope you get extra grace, support and freedom.  Still, after a week of camp, mission trip, and oh yeah your helping out with VBS (in the dunk tank) we find ourselves not remembering where our office is located.  It’s inevitable to have some disconnect from the other ministries and people in our church with youth worker schedules.  Remember that a little face time goes a long way.  Don’t assume everybody knows or remembers where you are--even if you emailed your schedule in April!  Budget some time to pop in and be relational.  Preventative care in the midst of our busiest time is easier than repairing communication failure in September staff meetings – stay connected.

Plan.  Of all the seasons in the year summer seems to rush by the fastest.  Fall is a crucial time to start new programs, communicate with parents and transition kids into our ministry.  Many of us have had the overwhelming late July reality that kids are going back to school and we are not ready!  Do yourself a favor and plan a little bit early so you can enjoy the summer (especially the end of it when you need a vacation TOO!).