Las Vegas definitely lives up to its name: "Sin City". Although, in retrospect, I think that it would more accurately be called "Skin City". Pornographic images were everywhere and the entire culture was centered on sensuality and deviousness.
Although this last week was jam-packed with lessons on our culture and its values, there were several moments where I sensed the grace and providence of God.
Moment #1 - Arriving
Having a baby has its advantages when traveling. We had to get a cab to take us to the car rental place and instead of waiting 30 to 45 minutes we were shoved to the front of the line because of our "traveling with baby" status. A small miracle for us in the midst of a lot of craziness! (also, coming back home we experienced another expedited security checkpoint that shaved off an hour's wait in the Las Vegas airport - praise God!)
Moment #2 - The Bellagio
The buildings there were amazing (until you realize they were paid for by the millions/billions of dollars that come streaming in second by second via slot machines, card tables and bets). Standing in front of this massive structure, Tara and I watched the water show that has been widely known because of the popular movie "Oceans 11". During the show, two men were standing behind us sharing the gospel and praying with anyone who would come up to them. Although their methods (including a sandwich-board with abusive language) were less than God-glorifying, I was reminded of the real reason Tara and I were there (or perhaps I should say the real reason that we exist at all times) which is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever!
Moment #3 - Conversations at the Pool
Tara's extended family (her mother's side) accompanied us to Las Vegas ( or more appropriately, we accompanied them due to their generosity!). All of them, to the extent of my knowledge and discernment, do not know God, and most of them would admit that they are not Christians nor desire to become one. To get to the point, I had several conversations with one of them in particular concerning my position on certain cultural/ethical issues (which are really side issues which reveal deeper and stronger worldview convictions). Some of them included capital punishment, dinosaurs on the ark and the end of the world. Although fire did not come down from heaven and burn up the deceit and falsehood that was present, I did sense an openness to Scripture that probably was not there before - praise God!
Moment #4 - Tara and Jacob
Ok, so this wasn't just a moment- it was the entire week. I got to spend a lot of quality time with my family! We did a lot of swimming, wrestling, eating, sleeping... but what was so great was that it was hour upon hour of uninterrupted time with the two people closest to me! This was tremendous for me ( and I know that it was tremendous for Tara and Jacob too... although Jacob wouldn't be able to put it into words). Even more importantly, Tara and I were free to talk about our incredible God and spend a huge chunk of time reading Scripture and studying what God has been teaching us as of late... knowing God through his revealed Word is sweeter than honey!
Lesson Learned: Although some places seem to be more wicked than others, God can be sensed and experienced and pursued and enjoyed at any time and any place. - even in "skin city"
May God encourage you all wherever you are and at all times!
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