Take time off - but not from God

Submitted on July 15, 2004

Send to friendAs summer sizzles, many people look forward to their annual vacation. Indeed, someone as busy as Pope John Paul II has always taken a short respite from his duties and continues to encourage others to do so. He’s been cooling off in the Alps the past two weeks and noted before he went how important it is for people to renew their energy for the demands of life by taking a short break from their usual routines. However, while we may leave behind the responsibilities of our jobs and even "get out of Dodge" for a week or two, we must never think we can leave God behind during our vacation. One constant in our lives is our calling to follow Christ, which is not something that needs a vacation. Our summer sojourn may take us a thousand miles away from our own parish. But we need to fulfill our Sunday obligation to hear the Word of God and, in a state of grace, receive Him through the Eucharist by attending Mass wherever we are. And, it doesn’t hurt to attend weekday Mass while on vacation; it may form a delightful habit we’ll continue when we return. Prayer, which should be a part of our everyday life at home, should continue on the trip, too. God hears our prayers wherever we are, and is quite happy to hear from us wherever we’re calling from. Adults with young children wouldn’t think of neglecting them while taking a vacation. So too they shouldn’t neglect their family’s spiritual life during that time (and showing children that prayer is an everyday activity, even while on vacation, is certainly excellent training). We don’t think twice of calling on God for help when an unforeseen dilemma threatens our vacation. We should be happy to give thanks and praise to God for all the good days we have while we vacation. So, enjoy your time away. Be sure to include God in your plans.