Can you believe it? The days of Summer are quickly coming to an end. Even though the temperature gives us little indication, the prelude to Fall is “in the air.” The signs are all around. Back to school shopping, the Chiefs are in Pre-season training camp, the Royals are in last place, the sweet corn is playing out, and for many of us, our vacations are becoming distant memories.
Ah yes, vacations—strange creations indeed. Most of the time our vacations are relaxing and refreshing, but sometimes they can become stressful and demanding. (Hope yours was relaxing and refreshing). One thing I’ve noticed. No matter how wonderful a vacation is, sooner or later we come to the realization that Dorothy was right when she clicked her red shoes together and repeated over and over, “there’s no place like home.”
Motels, hotels, and the guest rooms of friends and relatives are nice. They are usually warm and inviting. They have beds. They have tables. They may have food, and they may be comfortable, but they are a far cry from home. It’s always great to “get back home,” isn’t it?
You know, when I stop and think about it, that’s exactly how I feel every Sabbath when I come to church. It’s like coming home. Church feels like home. This is where I belong. This is where I realize that I’m not just a cosmic accident, wandering randomly and aimlessly through life. This is where I “tap into” God’s power. This is where I discover God’s purpose for my life. This is where I am loved and accepted. This is where I experience God’s grace in the midst of God’s family. This is where I can join other family members as we worship together in our Father’s House, and serve together in our Father’s world.
As Summer fades into Fall, I pray that all of us will come to the realization that there is no place like home, and that we will rededicate our lives to the practice of worship and service. You belong to the family of Christ. Take a stand for your family, and then become family to someone who needs a father, mother, sister, or brother. May God bless His family.
