This is the time of year when many families begin
to plan their summer vacations. It's great to get away from many
of the stresses of life, the demands of work, the pressures of
school, and the confinement of our religious beliefs. Whoa! The
confinement of what? How are religious beliefs confining? They
shouldn't be, but many treat their faith as if it were an extreme
burden from which we occasionally deserve a break.
Do we behave differently when we're away from
home? Do we frequent businesses and establishments that promote
ungodly living? A Christian ought to maintain high standards the
year round. Do we make it a point to worship with local Christians
when on vacation, or do we have the attitude that no one is going
to find out. Even worse, is it acceptable among the brethren we
regularly work and worship with to skip the Sunday we are away
as long as we are in attendance the other fifty-one?
There are many reasons we should assemble with
other Christians when on vacation.
First, it is pleasing to God. "Not
forsaking the assembling of [ourselves]" applies to every
Sunday of the year.
Second, it strengthens our faith to realize
that there are others who believe and practice the teachings of
God's word as faithfully as we do.
Third, it shows others, especially our
children, that we have our priorities in line with God's.
Fourth, it strengthens the brethren whom
we are visiting. I have found this especially true since moving
to Newport, NC. Due to our location along the outer banks, summer
is an exciting time that brings many visitors to our assembly.
We provide mutual edification and encouragement to one another.
This year let's make a point of searching for
and worshipping with a congregation of the Lord's church as part
of our vacation agenda. "Beware, brethren, lest there be
in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the
living God, but exhort one another daily while it is called 'Today,'
lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin,"
Hebrews 3:12-13. 1634 New Bern St., Newport, NC. 28570.