ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
September 3, 2026
It was Mark Twain who wrote, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.” We have many people in the congregation who have traveled the world, and what I find fascinating is how often the comments, upon returning, are less about the attractions and more about the people. It’s not to say that we won’t bump into some arrogant or negative people in our travels. Most cultures have at least a few people who wake up on the wrong side of the bed almost every morning, and there is no question the same could be said about America. But in my own experiences traveling in Europe, Central America, and South America, I found the people to be extraordinary. Before we had maps on our phones, I had to request help from locals as I attempted to navigate the bus system in Rome, followed by a mile walk of which I only knew I was to walk east once I exited the bus. When I actually did, I couldn’t have told you what direction was what. Yet people in their kindness helped me find my way. One older gentleman, whose English was excellent, even walked with me a block so he could point out where there was a Y in the road to ensure I stayed on the correct path. Are there jerks in this world? Absolutely! Have I ever been one? I wish I could say NO, but I have a feeling there have been a few moments. It’s interesting to me that as I read the different letters of the Apostle Paul, from first to last, there appears to be growth in regard to his understanding of God’s grace. His ministry took him to places he would have never visited had it not been for his Damascus Road experience. As Twain suggested, travel is a powerful tool that can help eliminate prejudice, assumptions, and fears that may hold people back. Although Paul was physically expelled from a few towns, I believe he left most places with a newfound appreciation for the people he encountered.
God, help us! Lord, have mercy! Your beautiful reflection is seen in people around the world, assuming we take the time to engage and see past the many stereotypes we’ve been taught. Provide us with a little bit of your sacred vision. Amen.
