What are your plans for this summer? For many, vacation plans are taking shape. Some are preparing for important transitions in life – from high school to college, from school into the working world, or into marriage. Others may be settling into a new home or preparing to move elsewhere. And for some, summer may simply bring the continuation of daily work, ongoing challenges or the burden of a difficult cross that makes even sunny days feel overcast.
In every season of life, we are invited to walk with Jesus Christ as His disciples.
This summer can be an opportunity for all of us to walk with Jesus. Jesus continually invites us to come and follow Him (John 1:39), to hear His voice (John 10:27), and to love as He loves (John 13:35). One of my favorite passages for summer prayer is the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), where disciples encounter the risen Lord while walking together.
Take the Word with you
Wherever this summer takes you – to the mountains, the beach, the lake, or simply into the routines of daily life – take the living Word of God with you and turn it over in your heart, as Our Blessed Mother did (Luke 2:19).
In his recent pastoral vision for our diocese, Bishop Michael Martin speaks to the heart of our mission: “Everyone so loves Jesus, we share Him with others.” Summer offers a wonderful opportunity for families, individuals and groups of friends across our diocese to listen to or read the bishop’s pastoral vision and prayerfully reflect on it together.
Perhaps once a week you might discuss the Sunday Gospel, watch part of the bishop’s video reflection, and ask: How is Jesus inviting us to grow this week as His disciples?
Be a joyful witness
Our world does not need more fans; it needs players – missionary disciples who are joyful witnesses to the hope, mercy and love of Jesus Christ, Bishop Martin also reminds us.
A simple invitation to Mass, a conversation with a neighbor, serving someone in need, praying together as a family or faithfully showing up each Sunday ready to worship and encounter the Lord can become powerful ways of sharing Christ with others.
May this summer be a season of renewal, joy, rest and deeper faith for all of us.
Let us walk with Jesus each day, praying simply: “Thank you, Jesus. I love you, Jesus. I will follow you, Jesus.” And may we so love Jesus that we share Him with others.
Father Richard Sutter is pastor of St. Gabriel Parish in Charlotte.