Do you have someone in mind this summer?

As the end of the school year approaches and the summer terms loom large, our minds turn to the summer months. The pace is a little slower (for some of us), there is more time to build some relationships, and hopefully some time to get those myriad of projects done that we have been putting off all school year.

But as the summer approaches, I would like to challenge you to think about praying for one colleague of yours that could use the grace of God. One person in your department who you would lift up this summer and make a special effort to connect with and get to know.

Do you have a close friend who you've wanted to share your faith with? Is there someone near you who is going through an especially difficult time who could use an appreciative ear and heart? Has someone been asking questions that indicate a spiritual interest or hunger?

Any of these situations may be God's invitation for you to pray for this person specifically over the summer. And, as the Lord leads, you may be able to get involved in their lives to listen, help and care.

Just think of the impact if each of us would do nothing else but just lift someone up this summer and ask the Lord to demonstrate His grace to that person! It reminds me of the challenge Larry Crabb proposed in his book, Encouragement. He said, "Just think of the difference it would make if we each went to church each Sunday morning with the firm intent of encouraging someone we met there?"

But for that to happen, you will need to choose that person and develop a small reminder so that you will be persistent in your prayers. (You might leave a cryptic post-it note on your computer as a reminder or a bookmark in your Bible.)

Scripture: Ephesians 1:18a - "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling."

Action Point: Decide today who you will pray for this summer and ask God for an opportunity to be an instrument of grace in their life. Put that person's name somewhere so you can remember to pray for them.

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