[251 words]
From time to time, church members will ask for assistance in locating a church of Christ in an area where they will be traveling in the near future; perhaps on vacation, during a business trip, or to visit family or friends. Attending worship with fellow-saints on the Lord’s Day figures into their travel plans.
Such a request indicates that their priorities are properly placed; it’s important enough to plan ahead; to inquire in advance; it’s a top priority with them. Jesus would be pleased with their search because he said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). That is exactly what they are doing, putting Christ and his church first.
By inquiring where your extended church family meets in a given city or town is a good practice. Preplanning, 1) saves you from having to locate a congregation after you arrive at your destination, 2) it allows you to meet and worship with Christian brothers and sisters you haven’t met before; but most importantly, 3) it conveys to Christ and others that the Lord always comes first, at home or away.
Surely God is pleased when his children take the time to include him and his Son in their travel plans. If you ever need assistance in locating a congregation before you travel, we have a book entitled: Churches of Christ in the United States that may help us find one for you. We would be happy to do so-it’s a good practice!
James Cudd
Hinton church of Christ
Hinton, OK