Earlier this week, I was at the gym, trying to get back into the swing of things after the long holiday weekend. After my workout, I struck up a conversation with a guy who’s a regular there. He recently had a baby, so I asked how things were going at home. He smiled—tired but proud—and said things were going well. Sleep was still hard to come by, but the baby was starting to stretch out the nights—little by little.
I told him I was impressed he was even at the gym, given the new-parent sleep schedule. That’s when he mentioned something he calls “The Rule of 2.”
I had never heard of it, so I asked him to explain. He said it’s a principle he lives by: Never miss two workouts in a row. He gives himself grace to skip one now and then—life happens—but he’s found that if he misses two in a row, it becomes much harder to get back into the rhythm.
That got me thinking: “The Rule of 2” is a pretty good idea—not just for the gym, but for our spiritual lives, too.
Summer is here, and with it comes vacations, weekend trips, ball games, lake days, and full schedules. It’s easy to get out of the habit of attending worship. And the longer we’re out of the rhythm, the harder it can be to return.
So here’s an invitation: Try the Rule of 2 this summer.
It’s okay to miss a Sunday. We get it—life is full. But let’s commit to not missing two in a row. Let’s be intentional about prioritizing our faith and staying connected to God and one another, even in a season of flexibility and fun.
And remember—worship isn’t the only way to stay engaged. Here are a few simple ways to stay connected and spiritually grounded this summer at Good Shepherd:
1. Stay Connected with Your Small Group
Even if your group is on a summer break, plan a few social gatherings or check-ins. Whether it’s a barbecue, game night, or just catching up over coffee, these connections matter.
2. Mark Your Calendar: Serve Day – July 26
As part of our Ignite vision, we’re launching a community Serve Day on July 26. There will be opportunities for all ages and abilities to serve together and make a difference. It’s a great way to live out your faith and make an impact in our community in a tangible way—and to do it together.
3. Worship Online, Wherever You Are
On the road? At the lake? Out of town? Don’t forget—you can worship with us from anywhere. Join our online service and stay spiritually connected, even when you’re away.
4. Be Part of VBS – It’s for Everyone!
Vacation Bible School isn’t just for kids. It has the power to spark faith in children and adults.
There are three ways you can be part of it:
- Register Kids – Invite neighbors, friends, or family members. Every child is welcome and will have an unforgettable week.
- Volunteer – Join our amazing team and help bring faith to life for kids.
- Give – This year, we’re inviting the whole church to help support the experience. Every gift helps us show kids they’re deeply loved by God:
- $10 = snacks for a group
- $25 = craft supplies for a class
- $50 = a full scholarship for one child
- $100+ = dinner for our entire team of volunteers for a night
So this summer, give yourself grace. Take your trips. Soak up the sunshine. Make memories.
But don’t forget the One who gives us rest, renewal and real joy.
Don’t miss twice. Let’s stay connected—and grow together.
Peace,
Matt Fulmer
Lead Pastor, Good Shepherd
P.S. This Sunday, we’re continuing our Entourage series with a surprising twist—what can we learn from the villains in Jesus’ story? You might think you know who the “bad guy” is… but there’s more to the story. Don’t miss a powerful message, meaningful worship, and maybe even a little villainous insight. See you Sunday!
