“WHAT ABOUT THE LORD’S DAY?”

Less McGalliard

     Families on vacation; others taking advantage of good weather to enjoy the great outdoors on weekend trips.  I resigned myself long ago to the reality of a lot of folks being gone from time to time, but I realize the potential dangers as well as the benefits of travel.  Holidays can take a toll in more than one area spiritually.  Let me put it in the form of loving exhortations:

     First, Don’t forget your financial obligation to the local church.  We don’t do big “Madison Avenue” type fundraisers.  The church survives and continues her work on the basis of the generosity of members.  Free-will gifts, generously and regularly given from the heart  are what sustain the work of the local church.  It is best to regard your contribution as sanctified money to God.  It is not yours to spend.  It belongs to the Lord.  Strong convictions in this matter help bolster us against the devil’s temptation to spend the Lord’s money on ourselves.

     Second, Plan your trips carefully so that you can assemble with the saints in a local congregation.  It is far too easy just to have a little “devotional thought” on Sunday morning in the motel room instead of getting up, getting ready and “going to church.”  There may be rare exceptions, but if at all possible, plan to spend Saturday night where there is a congregation of the Church.  You will encourage Christians there and you will put first things first.

     Third, Don’t get out of the “habit” of attending faithfully because of frequent trips.  The more you are gone, the more you can feel detached from your home congregation.  Don’t let summer recreation cause you to become lukewarm.   Remember!  The Lord’s Day is the Lord’s day!

  (Submitted by an elder)