It’s warming up here in Atlanta, and the summer months have set in. Kids are getting the first-day-of-school jitters and packing up bookbags, camps are coming to a close, and you, like me, are probably soaking up the sun where you can with an occasional outdoor work set up. It’s a sweet time that makes it a little bit easier to get together and love the people in our lives, and serving intentionally fits seamlessly into these warm days.

At Orchard, we hope to reorient the misconception that it takes hours out of your schedule to love the people around you well. We believe that intentional moments are mighty and that Christ should be known by the Christlike actions of his followers. We also understand you might need a little inspiration to activate everyday moments. Here is our summer list for 10 Ways to Serve in Place, at home, or at the office:

From Home:

1. When was the last time you wrote someone a letter? Choose a friend or family member who lives out of state and send them a note.
2. Start your week by asking God who in your life you should reach out to. This could be someone from church, an old friend you haven’t heard from in a while, or anyone else. Simply check in and ask how you can pray for them.
3. Pick a night this summer to pack hygiene kits and snack bags with your family. Keep them in the car for when you encounter someone who could use some help while running errands.
4. Set up a snack and hydration basket outside your house to support delivery drivers who are working long hours in the heat. They will thank you!
5. Organize a weekly or monthly backyard potluck for friends and neighbors. Creating space for them to connect, feel seen, and bring their kiddos along.

From the Office:

1. Set a timer once a week to take a five-minute break and send an encouraging text to someone who needs it. Try to meet them where they are and what God may want to say to them.
2. Begin each week by asking God which of your coworkers could use some encouragement. Take a step to be intentional in your conversations.
3. Pick up a coffee on your way into the office for a coworker who has been feeling overwhelmed.
4. Too early? Consider grabbing dinner on your way home for a neighbor who could use it.
5. Cash App or Venmo a coworker some money for lunch, just to treat them and brighten their day.

Try one of these out each week until the end of Summer. Sometimes the small things really are the big things. We’re confident that it takes steps of faith and obedience to reach the world around us. 

Let us know if you try it and how it went on  socials. Tag us @meetorchard, we’d love to celebrate with you!