Travel Far and Near

I used to be amazed when someone would say to me, “I have never been out of Texas.” I have difficulty believing that, but I am sure it is true. Travel is a wonderful experience – regardless of where we go. This World, even in it’s current “state of affairs,” is a beautiful and exciting place to visit.

I look at some of the “travel” sites and blogs only to discover that there is very little commentary on things that are close to home. The “travel folks”are always talking about the exotic places around the World and explaining how great it is to spend the night in one of those  tree houses in Belize, or walk the beach in Guadeloupe, or take a cruise thru the Mediterranean. And I agree. It is pretty wonderful.

But not all of us can do that all the time. . .or any of the time. So, I would suggest that you define “travel” as something closer, less expensive, but non-the less just as beautiful in its very own way. For example, you can travel less than 100 miles from your home and see something new and exciting  if you have the heart for it. I am fortunate to have two homes. This past week I drove about 60 miles from one of those homes to a place called Penitentiary Hollow. I have been there a few times, and I find it to be one of the more beautiful works of God. It was especially quiet the day I was there. Only one other car, and I never saw the people. No, it’s not Grand Canyon, but it reminds me that “size isn’t everything.” Small is just as beautiful as large if you “look right” for the beauty God has built into His creation.

From my other home I can drive about an hour and explore Caddo Lake. No other place I have been in the World is like that. It’s an experience not soon forgotten.

And you know what? Church is like that. It doesn’t have to be big or have professional music presentations, or a Preacher with a reputation that hides our view of God. Sometimes it is in the smaller place, with fewer people, and a humble man who “speaks for God” that we find the satisfying comfort of God’s Spirit. It may seem unimportant. . .like comparing Penitentiary Hollow with Grand Canyon. . .but the Truth that “beauty is in the eye (heart) of the beholder” is clearly a reality.

Here’s what I am saying: the best is not always what is largest and most well-known, or further away, rather, what is best is in the heart of the individual who seeks to know him/her self in light of God’s design for each individual.

Try that short trip you can make on a Saturday. (The cost to see Penitentiary Hollow is $7,and you can stay all day.) That Church just down the street may be where God will speak to you in a new and exciting way. (You don’t have to drive to Houston or Phoenix.)

Travel far. . .or travel near. Just get out there. Hear and see! Go and do! God is waiting for you! He wants to tell you great and incomprehensible things you do not know. (Jeremiah 33:3b)