“Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” – John 4:35
Summer is almost here! The days are getting longer (in the Northern Hemisphere at least), the sun feels warmer, and many of us find ourselves a little more available—emotionally and physically—for connection.
Summer naturally creates margin: people are outside more, school schedules slow down, and even the busiest among us seem a little more open to spontaneity.
This creates natural opportunities to build new relationships, and deepen existing ones without it feeling forced or awkward. By being present, available, and intentional, all sorts of open doors occur for meaningful mission to take place.
If you’re wondering where to start, start local. Start with your geographical neighbors—the people who already live right around you. The benefit of this approach is that you don’t have to go far, because mission is literally by your doorstep!
However, don’t stop there. Ask Jesus where He wants you to invest in this season—your workplace, where you play sports, your kids’ friends’ families, extended family, and so on.
How to Start: Small and Natural is the Goal
When we think about “mission,” we often picture something complicated or involving lots of planning.
But relational mission in the summer starts simply. Think about small moments of connection that grow over time:
- Be Present: When you’re out and about, don’t always be in a rush—allow time to linger. Smile, wave, stop for conversation. Before you head out, ask Jesus for divine appointments.
- Invite Along: As you do things—a walk, a game of pickleball, a trip to the movies—simply ask, “Would you like to come?” Sometimes people are just waiting for an invitation.
- Notice Needs: Pay attention to the small ways you can serve—the lonely colleague who you can stop for a coffee and chat with, or a young family who could use an extra hand with their kids.
Mission doesn’t have to be another project. It’s weaving others into the life you already live. It’s about posture more than programs.
Practical Starter Ideas
If you need some inspiration, here are a few easy starting points for relational mission this month:
- Neighborhood Strolls: Make a habit of evening walks. Bring your dog or kids. Be open to anyone you bump into along the way and the conversations that arise.
- Front Yard Presence: Set up lawn chairs in your front yard a couple of evenings a week. Invite people who pass by to join you for a few minutes.
- Pick-Up Games: Organize casual sports (soccer, basketball, frisbee) at a local park. No sign-ups, no agenda—just bring a ball, and perhaps some cold water bottles.
- Simple Shared Meals: Invite one household over for a relaxed outdoor meal. No need to impress—even pizza or sandwiches are enough. Or go together to a local restaurant.
- Neighborhood Prayer Walk: Intentionally walk your neighborhood and pray for the homes and families. Ask God to show you specific things to pray, to tie in with the knowledge that you already have.
Next Steps
- Pray: Ask Jesus to give you His eyes for your neighborhood or place of mission this summer.
- Plan: Choose one small way to be intentionally present this month. (You can always add more later!)
- Partner: Invite someone else to join you—mission is better together.
- Prepare: Be interruptible. Keep your heart and schedule open to unanticipated moments and conversations. Remember: you are sowing seeds, and the Spirit is the one who grows them.
Starting simple is a great way to jump into a summer of missional connection. You can be on mission and still make it very sustainable!
The key is to take a first step… What will yours be?
Be sure to check out Alex and Hannah Absalom’s new guide Praying for Our Lost Friends, now available in your Saturate membership.
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