Mission Minded Summer

Summer is almost here and kids are getting ready to have a lot more free time. No matter what your school schedule, you probably have more free time in the summer.

It is often a time when things slack off and we can't wait for fall so we can get back into a groove and have a routine again. However, I think it is important for children to still have something that is keeping them focused in the summer. It is a great time to focus on the mission that God has left us on the planet to do!

The Great Commission is important 365 days a year. There isn't one time of the year where it is “okay” to let the mission of God slide behind us. However, summertime does give us a lot of free time to be more mission minded. Here are some simple ideas to keep your kids focused on the mission this summer.

Have a summer mission statement – Start your summer by making a mission statement. This doesn't have to be just for the great commission. Mission statements help everyone stay focused. Maybe you have books you want your kids to read, crafts or camps, or a friend to witness to. Make a mission statement and include some spiritual goals in it. This summer, my children are going to be memorizing the books of the Bible and some simple passages of scripture about salvation.
Plan missions into your vacations and day trips – No matter what you are doing, plan some missions into each week. Maybe you are going to the local zoo. Plan on having your children take tracts, or engage in conversation with other children about Jesus. Maybe they can share about how God created animals or plants. Take homeless packs that you can pass out around town. Plan day trips to the soup kitchens. Clean out a room and take the extras to a homeless shelter. Be intentional about what you do.
Family Bible study – With school being out for more children, do an in-depth Bible study with your kids about a subject that is deeper. This is a great time to do this because their brains are not focusing on school work as hard.
Memorize Scripture – Again, another great activity that should be year-round. However, it can be done with more purpose during the months when their brains are more “turned off.”
Have a neighborhood block party – Summer is a great time to cook out and have friends and neighbors over. Make sure your kids see your home as a tool of ministry where they can see the gospel flowing in and out of your home.
Be the house everyone goes to – Have a sprinkler, have popsicles. Be a house the kids want to come to. As children are coming and going in your home you will have opportunities to share the gospel with them and their families, and so will your kids.