Summer: More Than Just a Break
Summer has been a gift.
Between evenings around the campfire roasting s'mores, competitive lawn games, pickup basketball, hiking adventures, beach trips, and simply spending time together, we've been reminded that some of the best moments of ministry happen in the ordinary. Relationships are deepened not only in Bible studies but also around picnic tables, on pickleball courts, and beside a crackling fire under the stars.
For many of our college students, however, this summer has been much more than a vacation. After a demanding year of classes, exams, campus ministry, and leadership, summer has become a season to breathe. Some students have spent their summers serving on mission trips, working at Christian camps, leading Vacation Bible Schools, taking Theology classes, or investing in their local churches. Others have balanced long work hours with continuing to grow in their faith. It has been encouraging to watch them live out their faith wherever God has placed them.
One of the beautiful rhythms we see throughout the Gospels is that Jesus valued both mission and rest. He regularly poured Himself into teaching, healing, and serving crowds, yet He also invited His disciples to step away and be refreshed. After an intense season of ministry, Jesus said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). Even Jesus Himself often withdrew to quiet places to pray and spend time with His Father (Luke 5:16). He understood that rest wasn't laziness—it was trusting the Father and being renewed for what was ahead. The Bible reminds us that true rest is ultimately found in Christ. Jesus extends this invitation to each of us: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28-30). Our culture often tells students to keep achieving, producing, and performing, but Jesus offers something different. He offers a relationship where our identity is rooted not in what we accomplish, but in who we belong to.
As we enjoy these final weeks of summer, we're thankful for the laughter, the conversations around the fire, the games, the worship, and the opportunities to serve together. They have reminded us that following Jesus is not simply about attending events—it's about learning to walk with Him in every season of life. As another school year quickly approaches, we are praying that our students return to campus spiritually refreshed, deeply rooted in God's Word, and ready to be the light of Christ in their classrooms, residence halls, athletic teams, and friendships.
Thank you for praying, encouraging, and partnering with us as we continue helping students know Jesus, grow in their faith, and make Him known.
Ways to Give
Credit cards: Click here to give a one-time gift or to become a monthly supporter: https://missionaries.namb.net/full/brady-rennix
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In the memo section, please include the following: #D421Q7-Rennix, Brady
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Mail to: NAMB-MSC, PO Box 116543, Atlanta, GA 30368-6543
Facebook page: Jesus Loves College Students
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