WHAT happens the moment the long school holidays start? Rush-hour traffic is reduced, and the town and parks are busier with children and families.

Families have to make the big adjustment. It’s great, looking forward to a fantastic time away, maybe to a new destination or an old familiar one.

Or else for others it’s that dreaded time of year when you struggle to find things to do to avoid boredom and keep the children occupied and out of trouble. Rest and recreation are just as important as work and graft.

Some of us tend to be lazy, others to become workaholics. Somewhere between the two is a good balance, so a break from the usual routine can help to restore the balance.

The Bible recommends (actually commands!) that we have a day off a week, and even that the land should be given rest on a regular basis.

It’s often only when you go away from say your job that you can look back at it, take stock, reflect, ask how things are going, where they’re leading, and how to continue hopefully with renewed energy.

Have a good summer holiday – find some space to stop and reflect and even pray.

HUGH BURTON Team Rector St George’s Church Kidderminster East parish