As you travel, I want to encourage you to visit churches. In visiting, we gain so much: a broader picture of God’s work, compassion for others, a renewed appreciation for home, a challenge about something we have yet to think about or have been avoiding, and more.
We visited two churches on a recent journey to connect with my kids in Kentucky and New York. The first was in Lexington, KY, where my son, Moses, serves as a worship leader. The second was Church of the City, where my daughter, Aravis, worships.
Church of the City is remarkable for its connection to many people pursuing their dreams in New York. Its focus on being formed by Christ, and the challenge to our sensibilities of how the world works, is palpable. Its full gospel proclamation for the converted and seeking souls is similar to Paul’s comment in his letter to the church in Rome:
“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16 NLT)
I was challenged at Church of the City. Their prayer ministry meets thrice daily (Monday-Friday) to ask the Lord to bring revival to the city. I was also encouraged, as I experienced a personal epiphany that was like an answer to the prayer in Ephesians 3:18-19:
“And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully…”
By all means, connect with Schweitzer when you travel, but I implore you to find a nearby church to worship with as well. The Lord has something for us when we gather in Jesus’ name.