In short, yes! I guess I could end there, but that would be a really short blog, would it not? It is clear that everything is not black and white in the Scriptures and clinging tightly to one’s interpretation or preference on every matter imaginable is not wise or charitable. However, this one is a matter I think is important for your spiritual health and that of your family.

I will go on record here as recommending, if you are financially able to, go on vacation. As one who now has teenage children, my time with them is becoming more and more precious as they approach time to leave the nest. The proverbial hourglass is beginning to run out, and I want as much as possible to make as many good, lasting, and substantial memories with my children. So why spend the time going into a “strange” church on vacation instead of starting my day out on the beach? (Btw, “beach” is my “love language” for sure!) 

First, believers are commanded to go to church. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us to “not forsake the assembling of ourselves together.” This means it is a command for Christians to go to church. And why? Because we need to be reminded of Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. We need Jesus just as much on vacation as we do in the daily grind of life. 

Second, it sends a message to your kids about priorities. While I want to relax, spend time with and make memories with my family on vacation, I believe our kids will remember going to church more than they will being delayed a few hours from hitting the beach or going to the mountains. Attending church even on vacation underscores that Jesus is Lord of our home, and He matters to us. While we take a break from work, we never take a break from Him. Ever!

Third, it gives you as a parent the opportunity to take your kids to a gospel-preaching church that may not look at everything the way you do. Here is a word of caution! Do not just show up at a church on vacation without doing some investigating. Look up on the internet and confirm this church believes the gospel. Make certain that you and your children will hear the preaching of the Word that Lord’s Day. And this may sound rude, but if your research was wrong and you find the church is not preaching the gospel, don’t be embarrassed to leave during the service with your family. 

Within a period of 18 months while visiting family or on vacation we went to a handful of different churches. After one of the services, I asked my kids if they remembered attending each church. (These churches, while all affirming the gospel of grace, were rather different in how they approached “doing church.”) They said they did. I asked them, which one do you believe had the highest view of God? I was thrilled to see that their answer agreed with mine. 

In that same vein, visiting other churches provides an opportunity to improve my own ministry. As somewhat of an introvert, I understand some folks’ timidity in walking into a brand-new environment. But I enjoy being preached to, meeting new pastors, and learning how they approach worship services. I am not so arrogant as to think that I cannot learn from someone else. But as all of us should be involved in ministry, you will be surprised what even non-pastors can learn from visiting another church while on vacation. Don’t be afraid to ask the leadership about unique avenues of ministries you are interested in. 

Fifth, visiting a “strange” church will remind you what visitors feel like every time they come to our church. Once we get established into our own patterns, we feel comfortable because we know where everything is, and we know a lot of people there. Remember though, strangers do not have that same experience when they come to our church, and visiting another church on vacation will help us remember how they feel. 

There is no verse in the Bible that reads, “Thou shalt attend church while you are on vacation.” Yet, I can think of no serious reason, outside of sickness, that should keep a believer away from worship on the Lord’s Day even while you are away. If you don’t know where to look, ask your pastor – if he loves your soul, he would desire nothing more than helping you land in the right place to add worship to your vacation experience. 

Soli Deo Gloria