We love summer in our home because it is ideal for hanging out together and creating lasting memories. It’s also ideal for spending time with God and creating lasting faith. But summer is almost over! Don’t fret! Just make the most of your time for the next few weeks and be intentional in your time with your family. Grow closer to each other and to God with these easy, practical ideas.

Family Mission Statements—Pause to plan out your purpose as a family. Begin with short-term goals for the remaining summer, letting each family member contribute. Then brainstorm big-picture, long-term goals. Ask: “What does our family stand for? What are our values, and how will we live them out?” Then have everyone commit to live according to your family’s mission statement. Post it on your refrigerator or have the kids make a poster to hang in a place where everyone will see them each day.

On-the-Go Togetherness—Road trips provide family members with lots of undivided attention. While I am grateful for hand-held games, Ipods and portable DVD players on long trips, I also still believe in good old-fashioned road trip fun. Enjoy long conversations, play games, count iconic objects like windmills and sing along to fun music. Pray aloud for residents of towns you pass and for rescue crews heading to accidents.

The Wonder of Worship—During the summer, add variety to your routine by worshipping at a different time at our own church, and be sure to visit churches on the road. It may not feel like your “home” church, but it will be a good topic of conversation and you can bring good ideas back to share.

Parenting Insights

Dr. David Anderson of the Youth & Family Institute offers these “Four Keys for Daily Living” to nurture faith life in the home. Try incorporating them into your summer fun as well.

Caring Conversations—Listening and responding to our children’s daily concerns makes it easier to have meaningful talks about God’s love. We express that love to others. Time in the car or in a relaxing situation is a great time for meaningful conversations with your kids.

Family Devotions—Infusing caring conversations with “God-talk” elevates them into devotions. We find God in our everyday experiences. You can find lots to talk about on a road trip.

Rituals and Traditions— These identify who we are and tell a family’s stories. These can vary from bedtime routines to special yearly vacations.

Family Service—This isn’t an obligation but a loving, grateful response to God’s love for us. We live our faith by serving others in big and small ways. Find ways to serve others with free time or while on the road.