Glamping is a form of luxury camping started by wealthy British people who frequently took African safaris. Instead of roughing it in the wilderness, these aristocrats vacationed with the best of accommodations such as soft beds, fluffy pillows, and all the modern conveniences such as televisions.
This form of relaxation has made its way to the United States. In 2010, KOA Kampgrounds increased 26% in luxury lodge rentals. Glamping Hub’s Ruben Martinez says, “After a week of camping, you’re not thinking, ‘I look homeless right now.’ You’re thinking about how comfortable you are.”
I fear the mindset of glamorous camping permeates our entire society, including local churches. I fear we have become a nation of comfortable Christians. I know I personally have. “I’m OK. You’re OK.” is not a healthy approach to life and a sign of a self-leadership issue.
Much of what I am about to say is going to be a public confession of some personal sins. How do you know you have become a Comfortable Christian?
- You are not attending church with a high level of expectancy.
- You no longer seem to be concerned about the spiritual condition of neighbors, family members, or your co-workers.
- You haven’t had a spiritual conversation with a non-Christian in a long time.
- The Bible seems like a history book. It’s lifeless to you.
- Your happiness on a Sunday mornings is more important than what it takes to reach the unchurched. As long as you get your parking spot, your seat, and hear the music you like, everything’s fine.
- The plight of the poor doesn’t concern you.
- Pictures of overseas suffering do not move you to action.
- You do not give your financial resources sacrificially.
- Your prayers don’t seem to be making past the ceiling.
- It doesn’t even dawn on you that God could do something incredibly radical in your life at any moment today. It’s not even on your radar.
Many items on that list have described me at various times in my life. Like British aristocrats on an African safari, I was lulled into a mindset of comfort over experiencing everything that was laid out right there in front of me. I had become too comfortable.
Can you relate?
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