For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. (Rom.1:20-25)
As the physical temperature rises in summer, it often corresponds that our spiritual temperature cools. The creation that emerges in full glory and splendor—as birds sing, flowers bloom, grass and leaves green and grow, waves roll onto white sand, rivers ramble across rocks, children run and play, and more—sometimes we move from focusing on the Creator this points to and become fixated on the creation itself—and that is idolatry.
Should you think I am some church curmudgeon trying to spoil your summer vacation, you are wrong. Sabbaths are part of God’s design. They should be observed on a regular basis for the good of our mind, body, and soul—don’t forget that last part. How can we take a vacation from God? I am thankful He doesn’t take a vacation from us!
The danger is that we neglect our Bible reading and prayer time because we are pursuing leisure. Our gathering for worship with the saints lessens as a priority because we may be away from home. I mean—who will know if I don’t show up for church? It is a subtle temptation to take the dollars meant to fund the mission and ministries of the kingdom of God and spend them at the Magic Kingdom. Fishing is a wonderful diversion, but fishing for souls must be an ongoing passion. Taking a swim in the pool can be refreshing, but diving into God’s presence is the ultimate.
So, enjoy your trip and thank God for the blessing of being able to do so. Take a hike into the woods or lounge in a beach chair at the ocean. Look at the splendor of summer. Smell the smoke and hear the crackle of a campfire. Don’t feel guilty about it at all. We need a break from the daily grind. Just be cautious and don’t take a break from God. Fall will come next—and it might mark a spiritual fall.
