One of the gifts of this time of year is the invitation to make space for what is utmost importance. I know that our family is slowing down a bit to make space for rest and reconnection and renewal after a busy school year. Vacation, time away, dinner on the back porch, or a visit with friends helps make summer what it is. This time of year also allows me to make space to look towards the goals and vision for this coming program year. Not that I want to “get on with it” or “keep going”; rather, the slower pace helps make the space to think bigger and remember what is of utmost importance—keeping the main thing, the main thing.
This is really all about the work of striving to live with purpose and rootedness in life. Whether it’s work or family life or serving our neighbors—I want my life to have integrity with my deepest values and vision. This time of year invites me to reflect upon: What do I want out of this life? What is the difference I want to make? What is the legacy I am creating for my family, or at Epiphany, within my larger community, this city, or the world? Click here to see a message from me on how you can leave a legacy at Epiphany.
This time of year can show us this blissful paradox: slowing down helps us get to where we actually want to go.
Later this month, we will host the youth, children, and adults from St. Stephen’s Youth Program on Friday, July 28 as they spend a day with us at Epiphany and enjoy an afternoon at Shannon Beach. We invite you to sign-up, get involved, make space in your life to support, serve, or pray for this beautiful and important partnership. It takes all of us to make this kind of difference in the lives of these young ones, even if only for one day. It is a day filled with joy and laughter and rest for these kids and all who serve. It’s a day I often see so clearly what we are about, what I believe God calls us to be and do—by simply being our best selves. I hope you’ll sign up or reach out to know how you can serve.
This summer I invite you to slow down and remember who you are and what God is calling you to in your belovedness. Do you sense the abundant life that Jesus promises moving within you (John 10:10)? God wants you to be full alive—not half awake. At Epiphany, I want us to be a community that helps one another slow down to see very clearly where it is we actually want to go in this life—what legacy we want to leave behind and create for others. So, slow down, take a breath, let go, and discover a peace that is already yours—thanks be to God.
Peace is yours,
Nick
