by Kim Avery

I frequently wonder which I enjoy more making wonderful memories or the glorious time spent reliving, retelling, and re-savoring those same precious moments. The answer I came up with is – both! God agrees.

Family Memories

The first one – creating memories – is not hard, as I discovered very early in my parenting journey. When my children were young I used to work diligently to provide them with memorable experiences: the day at the zoo, the wildly expensive trip to Disney, and the exquisite ‘Little Perfect Princess’ birthday parties. Strangely though none of those experiences seemed to stay lodged in my children’s memories the way I intended. Instead, if you were to ask my kids today for some of their fondest memories, they would laugh over the memory of the leaky toilet, the collapse of the pop-up camper, and unerringly recall every word of ‘The Cat in the Hat’ which was read about 400 million times – every night!

God Memories

What I learned is that beautiful family moments just come as we live life together. The same is true in my relationship with God. Over the years, I have spent countless hours going to world-class retreats, gripping seminars and listening to renowned Christian speakers. I enjoyed every minute. But if you were to ask me today about the most precious times I have had with my God I would instantly recall His seemingly last minute provision in times of need, the afternoon spent with peasant women in a Romanian barnyard, or a timely verse that gave me comfort.

Exactly which experience will provide our next memorable encounter with the Living God is unknown, but God is very clear about what we are to do once we have that memory. Review, remember, recall, and rehearse - this is His continual exhortation. God says, “… take care…, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life.” Deut. 4:9

What Will You Do?

This summer focus on both activities. Create memories by redeeming the time, loving each another, serving whole-heartedly, and giving generously. Living this way will guarantee great moments with God.

Then, dedicate yourself to reliving them. Intentionally carve out time with family and friends to tell stories of your amazing God and the things He has done. Discover the truth behind John Piper’s words, “For God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” Make this your most memorable summer ever!

What are your ideas for making memories with God and family this summer? I hope you will share them in the comment box below.