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Focal verse
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).
Reflection
Living in Missouri, I’m no stranger to photographs of families enjoying an afternoon at a creek. For several summers, visiting the creek near me was on my list of things to do. Finally, one morning this summer, I took my son and one of his friends to the creek. On the shore, the boys changed into swimsuits and watched for fish and crawdads. A large tadpole swam away, just out of their reach. Laughter, splashing and birdsong were the only sounds we heard. I waded in the water up to my knees.
I’m able to breathe more deeply at the creek. This, I thought, is how I’d like to feel throughout my days. More relaxed. More present. More attuned to the smile on my son’s face. More open to play.
More present to the grace before me.
Now that we’re in August, we’re in the thick of all things back-to-school. There are already lists for school supplies. Teachers are back in their classrooms. The days of later nights and (maybe) sleeping in are coming to an end. It’s hard to stay present when there’s a list of things to do.
I don’t think I’m the only one who wishes they could be more present with their children. Every season has its beauty, and summers especially can be filled with memories of park playdates, time in the water or simply enjoying watermelon and ears of corn with family. I’m looking forward to what’s to come but also deeply grateful for what is right now.
The time at the creek reminded me to stay attuned to what’s before me. As we approach a new season, take time to reflect as a family on where you’ve experienced God’s grace this summer. Share the joys and the challenges. Keep track of the prayers you prayed and how God met you. If you can, gather for a picnic or movie night and talk about your favorite memories. Through it all, remember that God’s love never left you—and will be with you in the days and seasons ahead.
Practices
- Create a family ritual for the first days of school. Pray together before you leave home, or write one another notes to open during lunch. Draw a cross on everyone’s hand to remind them of God’s presence.
- Find water to splash or swim in. When you float, picture God holding you and carrying you through your days. When you splash, remind one another of being drenched in God’s love.
Prayer practice
Pray for the school year ahead. Be specific and name the teachers and staff in your school. Ask your kids what they’re looking forward to and what worries they have. Pray together:
Dear God, we thank you for the gift of learning. We pray for all who work in schools and all who teach. May we be friends, and may we find friends who love us. May we stretch our minds and do our best. Keep us safe. Help us to ask questions and to always keep learning. Amen.
