“23for you have been born again
not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is through the living
and enduring word of God. 24For, ‘All flesh is like grass, and all
its glory like the flower or grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls
off, 25but the word of the Lord endures forever.’ And this was the
word which was preached to you.” 1 Peter 1:23-15
In the United States, Memorial Day traditionally marks the beginning of summer. Generally, people are looking to take a vacation – getting away from the usual routine of life; go someplace different; meet family or friends, experience new sites, sounds, and even try new foods. There is something refreshing and rejuvenating about “getting away”. It is highly recommended because of our busy stress filled lives.
Vacations often include a “vacation” from the word of God. This happens in many different ways, like skipping the daily reading of God’s word, or skipping worshipping in a good church where the Bible is faithfully preached and taught.
However, we might be missing a real opportunity if we leave the word of God behind. First of all, when we are away from the usual distractions of our digital world like emails, texts, phone calls, and the daily demands of our lives, there is a real opportunity to see what God has been or is saying to us in a more quiet and peaceful setting. In other words, on vacation, we might be able to actually focus on the Lord through prayer and reflection.
Secondly, when we attend a church while on vacation, we have a rare and exciting opportunity to meet other brothers and sisters in the faith. To see that we are not alone but part of a much larger family. We get to hear the word of God preached and taught by servants of God in a different way. It can be a real inspiration to hear the same spiritual truths we have heard before with fresh insights and applications. Of course, we are thinking of churches of like faith and practice.
All this to say, when you go on vacation, don’t take a “vacation” from the enduring word of God. Intentionally spend time in God’s word and allow the Holy Spirit to renew you in that all important “inner man”. And intentionally include a visit to a church that faithfully preaches and teaches the truths of the faith.
The spiritual rewards of spending time in God’s word can be priceless.
Happy Vacationing,
Pastor Arnold