I love traveling. I’m not sure what it is in me, but experiencing new places and observing people from different cultures brings satisfaction to my heart. This past week we took a group of 30 people on a mission trip to Boston where we were helping a friend who has recently moved to Quincy to plant a church. Several times we rode the T (the local subway system) and as I looked around, I was struck by the diversity. I heard many languages being spoken. I saw people of every color…and I loved it. I had some nice conversations with people from Africa, Israel, and other exciting locations. Each one had their own story and I also had the chance to share my life with them. At lunch yesterday I conversed with a couple guys who moved to the United States from Africa about ten years ago. They expressed their love for America and how it has presented them with so many opportunities. One thing they repeated over and over was that Americans do not know how good they really have it. I agreed because I’m pretty sure I am one of those people.

One of the biggest things I am guilty of is appreciating what America can do for me rather than what I can do to make it a better place. This trip to Boston reminded me that we have a wonderfully diverse country with people from all walks of life. Instead of pursuing more stuff, I need to contribute more to people. In less than four weeks, we will be launching The Summit. My desire is that it would become a place where people can share life together and pursue things which matter. I do not want The Summit to be defined by what they have, but by what they contribute to the lives of others. I believe all of us must stop our selfish pursuits and take the time to be with people. Talk to your neighbors. Speak first even when someone is not looking your way. Involve yourself in good conversations. Have dinner with someone from work. Most of all, do not forget to share what Jesus Christ did for you and how He changed your life. You do not have to travel across the country to learn the lesson I learned this week. Walk across the yard…strike up a random conversation with someone you do not know…contribute to the good of your community.