Summer in New England is traditionally a time when the merry-go-round of scheduled activities slows enough that we can "jump off" and do other things that we enjoy.  We need this time to rest and recharge our batteries.  Not one of us was created to run 24/7.

Jesus understood this.  During the fast paced days of ministry, there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and His disciples didn't even have time to eat.  So He said to them, "Let us go off by ourselves to some place where we will be alone and you can rest a while." (Mark 6:31)

Depending on our personalities, some of us are energized by moving into seclusion for respite and reflection, while others are refreshed by new and exciting activities that draw us away from our everyday routine.  Jesus was like the former, for we read that after sending the people away, Jesus went up a hill by Himself to pray.  When evening came, Jesus was there alone (Matt. 14:23).  No matter which type of person you are, each of us needs the renewal that this season can offer us.

Whether you spend much of the summer at home, away, or a balance of both - my hope and prayer is that each of you will find opportunities to reflect on your faith.  If you are at home, I encourage you to join us for worship each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. in the air-conditioned Parlor.

Remember the words of Jesus: "Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest (Matt. 11:28).

Happy Summer!

Pastor Martha Dominy
Senior Pastor
First Baptist Church, Malden MA.