Pastor Mark Hopper

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

I was having lunch at my favorite restaurant the other day and it was packed with people. There were all these students lined up waiting to order their food. It was crazy! Why weren’t these kids in school?

I found out that it was the last day of school for the Walnut School District. I think the students were released at 11 a.m. and it seemed like all of them descended on In-N-Out at the same time. The kids were excited and full of energy. It was like a huge dam had broken and all their pent up energy was filling the restaurant. It was clear that these students were ready for summer.

It is true that we all need a break from time to time. Certainly teachers need a break from the demanding role of teaching students five days a week. I’m sure that students also need a break from all the homework that they deal with during the school year.

Parents may feel a little different. There is something nice about kids having a routine. I’m sure parents are also glad that their children are learning and growing at school each day.

What are you planning to do with your kids now that school is out for the next ten weeks? I recently saw an article in the Orange County Register titled, “50 Things To Do For Free In Orange County With Your Kids This Summer.” I think every parent could use some helpful, inexpensive ideas to fill these lazy, hazy days of summer.

One thing I encourage all of the parents at our church to do is send their kids to summer camp. There is nothing quite like a week away from home at summer camp. Camp is expensive, but worth every dollar. In addition, many churches offer an inexpensive week of Vacation Bible School in the summer. Our VBS will be July 28 to August 1. It is a great week for kids to grow and learn.

I hope you have some creative plans for your students this summer, although I do recommend a visit to In-N-Out from time to time.

School is out. The kids are ready for summer. Are you ready, too?

Pastor Mark Hopper

Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

(909) 594-7604

Sunday Services: 9 and 10:45 a.m.