What Are You Doing This Summer?

"What are you doing this summer?" This question is often asked as the school year winds down. For some, the question awakens eager excitement for new adventures. For others, the question might induce anxiety over added responsibilities. Regardless, the summer season is full of opportunity and fun traditions.

This past weekend a quick trip to Central Oregon with my son ended in Sisters with a burger and fries and a shake at the famous Sno Cap Drive-In. We were getting a head start on checking the box of one of our annual summer traditions. The result was a father-son weekend with another valuable memory as we both grow closer to God and each other.

While the trip was short and simple, the experience still required intentional planning. We budgeted for gas money, suspect nutrition, along with other needed supplies. We plotted our itinerary, making sure we used our limited time to its full. I imagine most families have similar stories that celebrate family time in the summer. 

In the same way, making plans to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ requires intentional planning as well. Meaningful growth and valuable memories rarely happen by accident.  And while a blackberry milkshake may provide a spontaneous pleasure and perhaps conversation for a mild memory, growing as a family of believers has an even greater return. There are many resources available to make this a summer with no regrets. Here are a few that come to mind:
The Action Bible
Answers in Genesis Kids
Focus on the Family Summer Adventure Kits
Stand to Reason Apologetics Resources
Bible in 90 Days
Top Ten Books for Christian Teenagers
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Equally important as the content of the resource is the creation and commitment to a plan. As we enter the month of June, consider sitting down with your family and map out your summer. Consider both destinations outside of Salem and the destination of growing closer to God. "Draw  near to God, and He will draw near to you!" (James 4:8a)