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"Preparing to Learn"
August and September are the slowest activity months on Longboat Key. Summer is officially concluded as school begins, but it's still much too hot for the snowbirds to return. We're also nearing the peak of storm season, which nobody discusses, but everyone realizes.
The result is the lowest population count of the year in our area. For many permanent residents, this is a welcome arrival because it allows us to more easily navigate our errands, appointments, and other daily needs that can become difficult during the high season.
For those of us who keep busy schedules, this is the time to catch up. It's also the perfect time to begin preparing for the upcoming season.
It seems strange to already be thinking about the holidays, but it's time. I'm glad. It can be difficult to be working on Christmas during August, but the reality is that I have to finish my work so others can begin planning and implementing theirs. Churches should always be thinking ahead of the calendar. Though it can be exhausting, I need that constant push to keep me moving during these hot, slow months.
Without a doubt, It's important to take time to appreciate the beauty God has created around us, but sometimes an incentive to keep moving is just as important. One way I find that motivation is by participating in group events and activities. Group opportunities are wonderful because they provide built-in accountability. When other people are expecting us to show up, learn, serve, or participate, we're much more likely to follow through than if we're trying to do everything on our own.
That's one of the reasons I'm so excited about our upcoming Bible study, “Questions Jesus Asks.” Beginning in just a few weeks (September 2), we'll spend nine Wednesdays exploring some of the most thought-provoking questions Jesus asked throughout the Gospels.
His questions weren't designed to trick people. They were intended to open hearts, deepen faith, and prepare people for what God wanted to do next in their lives.
Perhaps that's exactly what many of us need as we prepare for another busy season.
Before the holidays arrive, before our calendars fill up, and before life begins moving at full speed again, we have an opportunity to slow down and allow Jesus to help us explore the things that matter most.
I hope you'll make plans now to join us. Whether you've studied the Bible for decades or are just beginning your journey of faith, I believe you'll discover something meaningful each week. Sometimes the greatest lessons aren't found in the answers we give, but in the questions Jesus asks.
See you Sunday! God Bless, Brock
“Questions Jesus Asks” meets on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. in person at the Longboat Island Chapel and 5:30 p.m. (EST) online via Zoom. Watch the Chapeline newsletter, Facebook, and the Chapel website for the electronic link to the study.
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