What are you looking forward to this summer? I am looking forward to watermelon! Summer fruits! BBQ's! Flip-Flops! Relaxing! Summer Breezes! Jasmine blooming! I get to read some books! Take some naps! Spend time with family! Spend time with God! (Why did I put God last, I ask myself?)
What are you looking forward to this summer? How do you see God fitting into your summer? Will He be part of your summer or just an add on?
Summer is a perfect time to continue building your relationship with God! For all of us! There are so many websites and ideas for you! See below for some ideas. I gave you lots of options! The point is to JUST DO IT!!! (It's like getting off the couch to exercise! There is a FIT bracelet -keeping track of our steps - where is our GOD bracelet? Keeping track of our prayers?)
I know it has taken me what seems like forever - to grow closer to God (Here are some of my excuses: I am from Missouri and you have to SHOW ME! - also, I am stubborn, not raised in any faith - my dad was abusive...the list goes on and on and on!!!)
But over time, I have gotten to know Him better through Christian music, through Scripture, through Mass, through prayer, through people who showed me what it was like to have God in their lives. Finally, I found myself including Him in my everyday life - not just at church on Sunday! (By the way -He was always there, even if I didn't notice or acknowledge Him) -
In every way, my life has gotten so much richer! Yes, I still have challenges, struggles and pain. But, I lean on my Friend, who is there for me, who strengthens me! My joys are brighter; my pain is lessened!
I know my God created me for a purpose. I still have not totally realized that purpose, but I figure it is unfolding before my eyes. The point is - every day I ask God to guide me and I follow where I feel He is leading me! I am powered by the Holy Spirit! I am fueled by the Love of God! I make mistakes and ask for forgiveness! I fall down, He helps me up!
Our
God loves us beyond our wildest imagination. He desires a relationship with us in the deepest possible way! He will make a way for us when we cannot see a way! He is with us - even if we don't think we have the time or think He is with us!
My suggestion for an easy way to include God in your life:
Every day - if you can just say a little prayer -
Lord, help me seek You today! Lord, help me see You today! Lord, help me be more like You today! He will surely answer your prayer! And VOILA! You will find yourself with a new BFF!
Have a blessed Summer filled with the Surprises and Love of God! Be sure to share them with your family and friends!
Middle School Youth Ministry Activities
