Getting Away

by Dan Curry

   

   There is a good chance this summer that many of us will take some time away from our normal routine.  This is necessary sometimes to help us relax and unwind.  However, this should not include a break from worshipping God. 

   Some people will take a vacation and not plan on where to worship on Sunday or Wednesday evening.  One minister that I know told me that he went to Orlando, FL one year on vacation.  On Sunday morning he went to services at a local congregation.  He met some of the local Christians while there and the place was quite full of visitors.  That evening he returned for worship and one of the locals recognized and greeted him saying, “You must be a preacher or elder” The preacher asked, “Why do you say that?”  “They are the only ones who come for the evening service” was the reply. 

   How sad that Christians justify not attending worship just because they are not near their hometown congregation.   Attending worship for faithful Christians should be something that is the highlight of each and every week.  Not only when at home but also when away.  The opportunity to worship God should be sought after and cherished.  We only have so many Sundays in our lifetime; please do not waste them by not attending and praising the God of heaven.  Our heavenly Father loves us and desires for us to reciprocate that love in complete obedience to His will.  Not attending worship when you are able is willfully disobeying the Creator, the one who sent His Son to die for us in order that we might have the hope of Heaven.   

   Getting away from our normal routine is good to do, saying that worship is included in that is not.  Plan accordingly no matter where your destination happens to be.  Perhaps, you will make a friendship with a fellow Christian that will surprise you.  Obeying Christ shows that you are His friend.  There is no greater friend than Jesus Christ.