Shanna Duck "Let a search be made in the royal archives..." Ezra 5:17 NIV

We have freedom in Christ to do many things and what one Christian may feel is extravagant another might feel is common-place or even necessary. For example, there are very devout Christians who feel that it is extravagant to wear certain types of clothing, live above a certain style, or even for girls to wear hair-ribbons. Each of us must be convinced in our own minds what God has called us to do in the community and social position/job/ministry in which He's placed us. 

The New Testament is VERY clear, however, that asceticism (purposefully treating our body harshly) is NOT the way to earn God's approval or make ourselves holy. (Col 2:22-23) Also, even if we were to give all our possessions to the poor, if we have not love, it profits us nothing. Doing without necessary food, rest,clothing or hurting ourselves won't change our hearts. That's "Worldly Religion." (This may surprise people.) Paul says that rules like this "have the appearance of wisdom," but they don't really do much to curb the fleshly impulses that come from our hearts. 

But, back to vacations in particular: We have a precious gift from God in an "earthen vessel." Our bodies exist according to certain rules. Yes, God can give us extra strength or endurance for a season, but He expects us to USUALLY take care of our bodies if possible. That means eating well, sleeping/resting, taking a vacation if needed, exercising, etc. There have been many cases of well-known pastors, church workers, and missionaries who've had serious breakdowns in health simply because they did not believe that THEY needed a rest occasionally. Care-givers and Moms often need a REAL break occasionally, because when they're at home, they ALWAYS know there's something to be done and they're on call 24/7. 

Now, only the individual can decide, with prayer and conscience, about a particular vacation. Is the vacation for rest, or education, or family time? Is it only to "keep up with the Joneses" or to show off? Will the vacation cost too much or will it take you into places you may not need to be? (like a Casino, a beach or show where people are dressed improperly, or a place where there is lots of drinking?) Will the vacation make your children more or less devoted to God, or will it make them greedy and worldly and to want to emulate worldly people? 

If you're a parent, ask yourself in all honestly: Will this vacation cost so much and put you under so much stress (say a trip to a major theme park or driving through heavy traffic) that you will lose you temper and NOT show Christian spirit? Will your children wish you HADN'T gone on vacation? Pray about it. I think a lot of people, even Christians, feel OBLIGATED to go on certain vacations with their children....like Disneyland/world or snow skiing...to prove that they're "good parents.". It's kind of a status-symbol, and often it puts the family under too much financial stress. 

If this is the case, then sometimes it's better to go somewhere simpler or not even go at all, but "vacation" on a day-trip or weekend-trip close to home. Sometimes a cabin in the mountains, at the lake, or a trip to a smaller amusement park is easier on the wallet and the nerves. Being who I am, I encourage people to look into their local history museums and living history centers and petting zoos & farms; these are often inexpensive and sometimes free. Places like this can help children connect to the past and to Creation. 

No matter where you go, just make sure Mom and Dad REALLY get a break and don't work MORE during the vacation and come home exhausted.

March 03 2014 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report