Mission Mondays: A Summer Tradition
Summer is in full swing and so begins one of my favorite summer traditions. Mission Mondays. Summer is for memory-making. We have so many opportunities to create meaningful memories. While we are creating memories, we can do something for others in need while sewing seeds of compassion into our children’s hearts.
2 years ago we labeled Mondays as Mission Mondays. These were dedicated days of service projects. Looking back over the years, these projects have become some of our favorite memories. As my boys get older, I’m realizing how important continuing this tradition actually is.
This year we invited friends to join us. For our first mission project of the summer, we filled blessing bags. These are bags that you fill to keep in your car so when you pass a homeless person in need you have something to offer them. We fill the bags with personal hygiene items, small non-perishable food items, a Bible, a handmade card, some hard candy, etc.
Once our bags were filled and cards made, we moved to our 2nd project. Making a welcome sign for a 12-year-old we are hosting through New Horizons for Children this summer. If you have been a reader here for awhile, you will remember when we hosted Viktors, an orphan from Latvia, during Christmas 2012. This summer we will host again, this time a girl. We know her well since she has been hosted by my sister’s family 2 times. We are so excited to shower her with love this summer. And have some girl flair in this male-dominated home for a few weeks.
This summer we have selected 4 Mondays to serve others. I find that my children tend to learn through action rather than just my words and these projects allow them to become involved and take ownership. Summer is a time of fun and relaxation, but I want them to see beyond themselves. To see that summer isn’t about only themselves and having fun. I want them to use their time and their talents to serve others.
Our first Mission Monday last week had the girls all over it. Marina has a beautiful sign that will greet her in 9 days!
Here are some Mission Monday posts from the past:
What are some ways your family serves others during summer break? I have shared a few ideas in the links above and would love to hear your ideas!
