This is how.

It is August and we are all so back! New plans abound again for so many of us, and although it is definitely still summer (and will feel like it for many more weeks here in Atlanta!), we are marking the beginning of fall schedules.

Just like New Year's Day, this is a time for so many of us to make refreshed resolutions, commitments to new projects, and dedication to new practical steps to make our lives better. But how? When there are a lot of things swirling in life, and there are different seasons in the air, how do we do it?

In 1995, Montell Jordan wrote "This Is How We Do It." The song reflected his college days and party culture.

This is how we do it

It's Friday night and I feel all right

The party is here on the West side...

The song is fun and hit number 1 on Billboard. It gives all the feelings of a party done right.

For us at Sanctuary Groups this month, we are going to tap into a party done right, celebrating life and gaining focus. And while I hope we have all the feels of Jordan's hit song, I'd also invite us to look at the biblical prophet Micah. Micah starts his story railing against the leaders of Israel. He accuses the leaders of great injustices, and frankly he delivers a lot of bad news. But - Micah also delivers hope to his listeners. By the time we reach the end of the book, he gives instructions for how to turn things around. In 6:8, he says, “He has told you, O human, what is good, and what the Lord requires of you: to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

Montell Jordan calls us to celebrate life, to let loose and dance and party with friends.

The prophet Micah says when things are hard - do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.

I think we may need the reminder of both. As we head into August, may you find time to celebrate even as you reset. May you find time to play even when schedules demand hard work. And when you find yourself wondering how to do whatever it is that is facing you - remember to do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.

Maybe the connection doesn't feel obvious, but think about it. When we speak out for justice... when we love the gift of mercy... when we return to the reminder that we serve God with humble hearts - we may also find we are celebrating with joy the lives we are given AND the lives of others with which we share this.

THIS is how we do it. Enjoy!

The healthiest thing you can do this summer might not be on your calendar.

Healing often happens in ordinary moments.

When we laugh together.

When someone listens without trying to fix us.

When we're reminded we aren't carrying life alone.

-Cultivate Counseling Atlanta