SUN OR SON WORSHIPER?

America is often referred to as a nation of sun-worshipers. When you consider how much money Americans spend every summer on "fun in the sun," you'll have to agree that we've earned that reputation. Certainly, God made the world for man's enjoyment, and there's nothing wrong with getting outdoors to enjoy the beauty of God's creation. However, those who wear the name of Christ, must remember that our fun in the sun must meet with the approval of the only Son of God, Jesus our Lord.

Since school has closed, our thoughts have turned towards vacation time and summer activities. Perhaps we would all do well to remember a few Biblical principles that find their application in keeping our vacation and our summer of fun in the sun acceptable to the Son and pleasing to God.

First, be careful of what you wear this summer (I Tim. 2:9-10; Titus 2:4-5). Just because its summertime does not mean it is OK to undress and rim around half naked. And brethren, why is it that so many "Christians" think God's laws on modesty are suspended during June, July, and August, or are only in force at the church building and not at the beach or the lake? Would you answer the doorbell at home wearing only your underwear (if so, remind me not to visit you, because it would embarrass me, if not you)? But, if you wouldn't feel good about that, why do you feel good about walking down the beach or riding around in a boat in clothing that covers no more, and sometimes even less flesh than decent under wear? I have never been able to figure out the "spiritual logic" that some of my brethren use to
justify their immodest apparel.

If you would be embarrassed for the Lord to call you to the judgement wearing what you wear in public, or if you'd have to ask to be excused to go put something decent on, then your lack of modest apparel is obviously not pleasing to God. How many of our brethren will lose their souls at the day of judgement because they refused to heed God's admonitions about modest dress? Brethren, rebellion in this area of life is just as soul-damning as rebellion against baptism, or against scripturally authorized worship, or against God's laws on drunkenness, lying, or sexual immorality (see James 2:8-11). How sad it is that many "Christians" today are no longer embarrassed to wear immodest and seductive clothing. Remember though, that when Adam and Eve discovered their nakedness, they were both ashamed and hid themselves from God's sight (Gen. 3:7-10). Far more need to recognize the shame of being unclothed in public. If so, husbands and fathers would exercise their authority and insist that their wives and daughters, and yes, even themselves and their sons dress modestly!

Second, be careful of where you go in the summer. Again, if you would be embarrassed for Jesus to be with you at your vacation spot, then you shouldn't be there! Never go to a place that would cause you to forget Christ, or where you would be ashamed to have him come along as your traveling companion. Remember, God and Christ see everything you do, and no matter where you go, you cannot hide from the all-seeing eyes of Jehovah (Heb. 4:13).

Third, be careful of how you act this summer. Some folks feel vacation time is the time to kick up their heels and forget all moral restraints. Others engage in sinful practices that they would not dare participate in back home. Brethren, this ought not to be so. Gambling, social drinking, dancing, sexual immorality, stealing, immodesty, and all other sins are just as sinful when practiced a thousand miles from home as they are in your own hometown. As Christians, we should always be aware of our example to others, and mindful of our personal responsibility to walk righteously before God every day that we live (Gen. 17:1; Eph. 5:15-18).

Finally, be careful to put the Lord first this summer (Matt. 6:33). Don't treat the Lord like a "work-in" patient at the doctor's office, giving him only a little time after you've done everything else that you've scheduled. When you're away on vacation this summer and the time
rolls around for Sunday and Wednesday Bible study and worship, look up the brethren at your vacation spot and study and worship with them. It will bless their assembly as well as your life. And don't forget to be faithful at home, too! The Lord's work goes on 365 days a year.

Also, remember that putting Christ first includes our financial responsibilities to Him, and to the work of our home congregation. If we can afford to go on vacation, then we can afford to keep our financial commitments to the Lord's work. Please do not let the work of the church suffer to pay for your summer fun. Be sure to leave your regular weekly contribution or make it up when you return.

May God bless all of you with a safe and enjoy able summer, as you remember that you are God's people, and that you owe complete allegiance to Him. Are you a "sun worshiper," or a "Son worshiper?" Think about it seriously as you enjoy your summer vacation!

David McCain