Holidaysmp3

What do our holidays reveal about us or, more importantly, the God we follow? Whatever kind of holiday we choose, there’s surely something we can say.

Perhaps we’ve gone for the four week, all expenses paid, luxury trip to Florida, and as a result can talk about the God who is extravagant, who throws parties for sinners, who isn’t a killjoy, but rather wants us to enjoy the material blessings of this world.

Perhaps we’ve gone for a ‘green’ holiday, ensured that our carbon footprint is as low as possible, and so can talk about the God who wants us to care for his creation, to tend and steward it out of respect for him.

Perhaps, out of compassion, we’ve gone away with that relative who is less than easy, and can talk about Christ’s command to love all, even those who are difficult.

Perhaps we can’t afford to go on holiday as the credit crunch is biting. We’ll therefore talk about the presence of God during both the good and bad times, the fact that being a Christian isn’t about having an easy life, but is about going through it with God rather than without him.

Perhaps we’re doing some kind of mission or outreach program, and might talk about why our walk with God is so important that we’re willing to give up one or two weeks to do something for others.

Or perhaps you’re not going away at all. But not because you can’t afford it – you can. Perhaps, instead, you’re sacrificing your holiday in order to give the money to someone who needs it more, or to pay for someone else’s holiday instead of your own. Perhaps you’re doing this because you know that the Lord you follow is one who gave his life for the sake of others and who calls you to do the same. Perhaps this will enable you to draw attention to his sacrifice on the cross which is at the heart of our faith.

I haven’t done this.

I’m about to disappear for a three week break.

But perhaps I should.

Justin Thacker, Head of Theology

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FNT will be taking a break in August and will resume in September. Have a good summer!