God sommer!

One of the big differences between Norway and the USA is how much we work. On the average, a US employee works approx. 1900 hours a year, and a Norwegian, less than 1500 hours a year. When an American worker has two or three weeks of summer vacation, a Norwegian (like many Europeans) has twice that. It’s not my business to argue for fewer working hours (even though they say productivity in Norway and the US is almost the same) But I’ll point out the fact that we all need the rest from a good summer vacation, by doing something relaxing, something different to re-charge our batteries. This could be both physically, mentally, and even spiritually.

There are a lot of ways to be spiritually renewed. It happens through the normal Christian life within the congregation. To some, a Bible camp or a major Christian event might be like a spiritual injection. To some, just spending time alone with the Lord is the best way to be renewed. If you feel you are carrying a special burden of sin, confession is a way to go. A good conscience gives new strength, just as care and prayer give to one who is sick.

God sommer! - we say in Norway. And I’ll add – “Have a good summer with the Lord.”

Vennlig hilsen,
Jens Arne Dale, Pastor