June has a way of sneaking up on us, doesn’t it? One minute we’re digging out from winter and racing through spring schedules, and the next we’re staring at calendars full of vacations, cookouts, family visits, and hopefully a little time to breathe. Summer brings a different rhythm with longer days, later sunsets, and maybe even a few moments to sit outside and enjoy the season instead of rushing to the next thing. Around here, June is already shaping up to be full in the best kind of way. There’s a lot to look forward to this time of year; gatherings, travel, celebrations, and those simple summer moments that somehow become the memories we keep the longest. My family is also remembering my grandmother after her recent passing. We miss her deeply, but we’re grateful for the love and faith she shared with us over so many years, and thankful for the hope and peace we hold onto in Christ. This summer, as a congregation, we’ll be spending time in the Sermon on the Mount. These words of Jesus are some of the most familiar and most memorable: “Blessed are the peacemakers,” “Love your enemies,” “Do not worry about tomorrow.” They challenge us, encourage us, and remind us that life in God’s kingdom looks a little different. It is rooted in grace, mercy, trust, and joy. They invite us to live with open hearts and to notice the ways God is already at work in everyday life.As you travel, rest, gather with friends and family, or simply enjoy a slower evening now and then, I hope you’ll carry these words with you. Jesus meets us in the ordinary moments just as much as the extraordinary ones around the table, out on the road, during quiet mornings, and in the middle of busy weeks. So wherever June takes you, I pray it brings laughter, rest, connection, and plenty of reasons to soak in the goodness of the season. Enjoy the sunshine. Stay up a little later when you can. Make space for joy. And through it all, remember that God is present in every part of it. Wishing you a joyful and blessed start to summer. -Pastor Kay