God Goes With You

God Goes with You

May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.

Numbers 6:24-26

I was having dinner with an Amish couple who told me they’d taken a trip to Europe. They’d gone sightseeing and had a wonderful time. Since most communities don’t allow members to use air travel except for medical emergencies, they went by ship instead—cruise ship.

“But we didn’t partake of the luxuries,” they quickly explained.

Many Amish live their whole lives within a few miles of where they were born, but that doesn’t mean they don’t travel and see the world. Since they speak Pennsylvania Dutch, a form of German, the Amish have a relatively easy time communicating in Germany and Switzerland, but their travel takes them all over the world.

As the spring air warms with summer’s approach, the Amish may consider summer vacations. While those who live and work on farms may need to stay close to home, others find this a perfect time to visit friends in other communities. Some Amish let their friends know they’re coming, but sometimes they simply show up as surprise guests.

Vacations are a time to see the world and enjoy Christ’s creation. How have you discovered God better when you’ve been away from your daily routine? Vacations often allow us to find peace. To settle our minds and bodies from work. To enjoy the company of family members and friends, and maybe meet new friends too.

When was the last time you went on vacation? Did you invite God on the journey? If you had been intentional about “inviting” God on that vacation, how might that have changed your itinerary?

God wants to be part of our everyday lives—and our special vacations, too. His peace, His grace, and His protection are with you wherever you go.

Dear heavenly Father, there are times when my mind mistakenly segments what things are “godly” and what things are “ordinary.” I am thankful that You are with me wherever I go!