by Justin Morton
It’s the sound so many have been waiting to hear. The final bell of the school year has rung, and class is finally dismissed. The kids are excited because summer is finally here, although some of the adults may not quite share the same enthusiasm. The end of the school year brings a time of relaxation, adventure and cherished moments spent with family and friends. For many of us, over the course of the next several weeks, we will take a much needed vacation. While that may just mean relaxing around the house, it could also mean loading up the car and traveling several hours to some thrilling destination with our family.
The summer is usually an exciting and memorable time. And while this time of year provides us with ample opportunities for travel and memory-making adventures, I want to issue a challenge for each and every one of us. No matter what our plans are this summer, whether we are spending the majority of our time here at home or on the road to bask in the sun, let’s make sure we include worship and fellowship with believers as a part of our summer plans.
The Hebrew writer reminds us, “ And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25). We need to remember that worship and fellowship provide great opportunities to help encourage us, strengthen us and build our faith.
Even during the summer months, when our routines may change, gathering for worship and fellowship remains vital. For one thing, God is still worthy of our worship, even when we are “on vacation” (Psalm 29:2; 145:3). You and I being on vacation does not change the fact that God is still deserving of our worship and praise. Secondly, no matter where we may find ourselves this summer, the devil is still on the prowl (I Peter 5:8) and looking to destroy us (John 10:10). The more time we spend away from God and the great people of God, the better opportunity Satan has to deceive us and influence us away from the Lord (Revelation 12:9).
So, no matter where we may find ourselves this summer, I want to challenge you to make sure the Lord and His people are a part of your journey. Make a commitment right now, before you even begin your summer fun, that on the Lord’s Day you and your family will always be assembled with the saints, no matter where you are.