Remember those fun days on the school playground where you went round and round (faster and faster) on the merry-go-round until you just about lost your cookies?! That's exactly where I see the average American family today (sadly, even families at Grace). Satan can get us so over-extended and crazy-busy that we become frazzled and lose our joy and effectiveness for our Savior.
 
Solomon tells us that our tendency to take on too much is not new. "Because all his days his task is painful and grievous; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is vanity." (Eccles. 2:23) What will it take for you to get off the merry-go-round of life? This summer, become proactive, so you don't get to spinning so fast that you are thrown off and crash and burn.
 
Also, Solomon had a healthy perspective of life's ebbs and flows when he wrote, "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven." (Eccles. 3:1). What are you doing to prepare yourself for the "onslaught" of mid-August? You have two months, so be strategic. Summer is a season to rest. With our family, I find that we're pretty good at the big events (going to family camp, etc.) but we really need to intentionally "throttle back" with the daily stuff. So, here are some ideas for this summer.
 
First, consider your priorities. We have to be good stewards of our time, and intentionally organize our lives around what we value the most. "But seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness..." (Matt. 6:33a) I recommend that you read chapter six (The Discipline of Simplicity) in Richard Foster's Book, Celebration of Discipline. He concludes with, "May God give you - and me - the courage, the wisdom and the strength to always hold the kingdom of God as the number one priority of our lives. To do so is to live in simplicity."
 
Second, simplify. Cut back on your schedule. Say, "NO"! Slow down and enjoy the Father's presence. "Be still and know that I am God." (Ps. 42:10a). Prayerfully consider now what activities you and your children should be involved in this fall. For example, we ask each child to pick only one sports activity at a time.
 
Third, be refreshed and renewed. Experience lying down in green pastures and enjoying the refreshing waters so the Good Shepherd can restore our souls. Rest. For me, I enjoy cooperate worship, and am trying to lead our family through devotions by reading through the Proverbs. But, there is nothing like getting outside and enjoying some time with my Creator. I love going for a walk in the cool (ha!) of the morning.
 
Fourth, have fun! Establish some traditions as a family...game nights, bike rides, fishing, watching Andy Griffith re-runs, going to the park. Enjoy spending some fun time together this summer as a family. Be creative.
 
What will you do today to get off the merry-go-round of life? Slow down...or you might get thrown off. In this issue of eNotes, you will find lots of great opportunities for your family this summer. Jump in and have fun (but don't try to do them all!).