First Baptist Church of Herndon

Worth the Journey

Linda Soller | Mar 19, 2018

Every summer our extended family packs up our cars with our beach gear and heads south to Myrtle Beach, SC for a vacation. It is a long trip down busy Interstate 95, but we do it anyway. Why? Because it is worth the journey to spend that quality time together in a place we love.

The Bible tells us Jerusalem was very busy during Passover. Jewish people flocked to be part of the holy days even though for many the journey was long and hard. They felt it was a critical part of their worship and fundamental to their faith. It was more than tradition, it connected people of common beliefs, multiple generations, and was worth the journey. The Bible also tells us of Jesus’ followers who traveled to hear Him teach, who would follow Him into the country side to listen to His lessons, who lined the streets to be nearer to Him and maybe even meet Him. Some were sick, some were poor, some came great distances, but to them it was worth the journey.

Today we feel so busy. Our daily commutes are often demanding and after a week of traffic we look forward to relaxing. It becomes so easy to miss church on Sunday and opt for sleeping in, or doing something “fun” to break up the work weeks. Does this sound familiar? As we approach Easter let’s pause and consider what motivates us to make those choices. Let’s think about the long-term value of what we are giving up for the short-term gratification. Going to church is more than tradition or habit. Church is where you share your faith with fellow believers, multiple generations, and find support and comfort to deal with the problems of this world.  I have said it before, and will say it again. No one church or congregation can please everybody, but I am certain there is one out there that will suit you. And believe me when I say, it’s worth the journey.

Have a great week!  :o) Linda