As a kid, springtime was always an exciting time of year: the weather warmed up, God's creation sprung back to life, the days grew longer, and I knew school was almost over. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed school, but I always looked forward to summertime. Instead of going to school, I got to sleep in, play all day, and do fun things that we couldn't do during the school year.
One of the things I looked forward to each summer was church camp. Each summer I would spend a week at Iron Springs Christian Camp near Whitney, Texas. It was fun to be away from home and enjoy God's creation in the Hill Country. More importantly, a week of camp made me think about what is most important: having an active relationship with God.
Another great memory I have is when mom and dad would load all of us kids up in the car and we would go riding in the country. I enjoyed seeing the beauty and simplicity of things in the country. Mom and dad always had stories to tell about our families and their lives in the places we drove through. These were fun times that gave us a chance to be together as a family and enjoy God's creation.
Families, it is my prayer that you will find ways to let your kids grow closer to God this summer. Church camp is one great way for that to take place.
Summer allows many of us a chance to catch our breath. I hope that you will take the opportunity to let your family re-charge this summer. Do something together as a family and create a memory that will last a lifetime. Spend some moments together enjoying the simple things in life. Have a family devotional and talk about God's word. Let this summer be a time to refresh physically, mentally, and spiritually.
The Family Connection, Spring 2004 Home