I absolutely love summer! Growing up, my father was a peach farmer so our days and especially the early mornings were spent on the farm, tromping through the fields, running in and out of the big cooler, hauling boxes and boxes of yumminess from S.C. to GA to TN and beyond. Looking back it was the best childhood, but I think I’ve blocked out the itchy peach fuzz, the 4am wake up calls, and the nasty peach smell coming from the rotten bin.
Summer also reminds me of family mission trips together. Each year, starting as early as third grade, my family along with many other families from our church, would pack up our vans and drive a few hours away and serve together for a week. The men mostly worked on construction of the church that hosted us, while the ladies and kiddos would lead backyard bible clubs in the morning and evening in nearby neighborhoods. We would also enjoy all our meals together prepared by some of the best ladies! It was the best and it laid a foundation in my life that loving Jesus was my priority and serving others was an expression of my love for Him. Those summers, all the way in to high school, were life changing for me and my family. We still reminisce about our summer mission trips together.
Summer can be such a fun time with our little ones and family, and it gives us great opportunities to share Jesus with others, but we must be intentional about our time and selfless with our lives and love. I would encourage you to look at your family and your time this summer and ask God to show you ways to be about the things that matter for eternity!
Here are some simple ideas to serve this summer!
1. PrayerWalk
Organize a prayer walk with your family or maybe a few other mama friends. Spend time walking in your town, around your schools, in your neighborhood and pray! Teach your children how to prayer walk. It’s just walking with purpose! Maybe end the walk with a special treat from the Icecream shop or the snocone shack!
2. Special Treats for Special People
Make some yummy IceCream or treats and take them to special friends like our police officers, fire fighters, ems. Or maybe take some to the construction crew that is working down the street in your neighborhood. Or maybe be on the lookout for your mail lady or ups delivery guy. Think of those that are out in the heat and could use some extra loving! Be sure to attach a note or card and share scripture or encouragement!
3. Lemonade Stand
Set up a lemonade stand and donate all the money that you raise to a local missions opportunity, to a friend going on a mission trip, or to a missionary serving overseas. Surprise them with the donation! Then spend time praying for BIG things this summer through that financial gift and gift of time.
4. Bottled Water giveaway
Get some super cold bottles of water and give it away to homeless friends on a super hot day. Sit and enjoy a conversation with them if they have the time, even though you’re hot!
5. Neighborhood Block Party
Plan a party or BBQ for neighbors to all get together and fellowship. Have fun together! Enjoy a yummy meal! Pull out the sprinklers or the water balloons and games. But Look for opportunities to share Christ during the night!
What other fun ideas do you have for your family this summer? How can you serve where you are? Share your ideas so we can learn from one another! And check out our Pinterest page for more ideas!
onmissionmoms.com 