Return to Routine
As summer winds down and kids head back to school, many of us return to a more consistent routine. Carefree summer mornings are replaced by alarm clocks, bus pickups, car drop-offs, and detailed scheduling. The extra trips, vacations, and other weekly interruptions disappear as we embrace a more regimented schedule.
As a child, I hated this time of year. I loved the freedom of summer, the absence of homework, and more time with my friends and family. It was painful to think it was all coming to an end. A small part of me still feels that end-of-summer pit in my stomach as my kids transition back into school mode. Even though it's been decades since I've enjoyed a monthslong summer break, I still love summer. I love the time with my kids; I love the changes in pace and place.
Over the years, I have learned to love the return of routine that comes with the school year. I enjoy knowing that everyone will be in the same places, doing the same things, week after week. I appreciate how the weekday routine creates a weekend routine. And I appreciate the opportunity to reevaluate our priorities each school year start provides.
August is more than a return to school; it is a New Year’s 2.0. The reintroduction of routine offers us a chance to evaluate how we spend our time and energy. The change of pace permits us to make needed changes. If this time of year marks a significant change in your schedule, take a few moments to ask God to help you evaluate your investments and make sure your daily and weekly routines honor Him.
Chris Dow
Lead Pastor
