I love the summer for many reasons - lots of sunshine, more time with our kids, time swimming in our pool and vacation! It's important to take time for rest and relaxation. Yet taking time away from our regular routine does not mean taking time away from God. God should infiltrate every part of our lives, no matter what we are doing or where we are.

In her article The Importance of Taking God on Vacation, Denise Oliveri says this,

"We teach our kids that God is everywhere, sees everything, and never leaves us. Well, that is except when we are on our family vacation. After all, this is a time to relax and enjoy a stress-free week when all we have to do is think about fun and games. It's easy to slack on reading the Bible or going to an out-of-town church on a lazy Sunday morning.

This is the mentality that many worshippers have taken for years. The problem is that it contradicts exactly what we are teaching our kids throughout the year, to honor God always. Why doesn't God go on your family vacation? Do you think God is too serious to have fun, or too busy taking care of more important matters than watching you go down a waterslide? Think about it long and hard. Who made the beaches and the mountains, and all of the fun things that we enjoy on our vacation? Chances are you will only come to see the true benefits of including Him in all of your vacation activities."

Denise gives these simple ways to make sure God is with you - 

"Pack everyone's Bible. When you see it at your hotel or condo, it will urge you to read a chapter or two. Take a family devotions book. Read it aloud just before everyone is hunkering down for the night. Remember to say your prayers before each meal, just as you would at home."

One of my favorite places to spend time with my family and with God is our swimming pool. I pray about all kinds of things and even think about my sermons. I love to think about how much God has blessed me, as I float and look at the clouds!

No matter where you find yourself this summer, fishing at the lake, playing putt-putt golf, watching a ball game, enjoying a campfire, God is with you. God does not take vacations - He is always working, taking care of you. God will protect you and your family - take the time to ask. Ask God to bring you joy as you take time away from the daily routine. Ask God to use you to shine His light to everyone you encounter. Whatever you do this summer, take time to give Him thanks and praise.

I pray you and your family will enjoy this summer!

In Christ's ministry ~ Pastor Caryn