I was recently intrigued by the cover of an old National Geographic magazine titled “Best of the World.” The magazine is from December of 2019, and is devoted to highlighting the best places to visit in 2020, from far-flung locales to homy villages.
Of course, back in December, there was no pandemic. Reports were just starting to come out of China about the outbreak of a new virus while the world watched…or casually brushed them aside.
What a difference a few months can make! I was struck by how we all used to have the quaint idea that 2020 was going to be much like any other year. When this edition of National Geographic came out, I was making my usual travel plans along with everyone else. Today, every single plan I made has been cancelled, changed or kept with an asterisk for a future determination.
Yet, I couldn’t help but pick up the magazine. As I read article after article, I thought about how important travel and leisure are to our souls. And, instead of feeling sad about all the places I won’t get to go to this year, I started to think about the places still within my reach. With that in mind, this June we are going to celebrate God’s world by exploring places not too far from home that will refresh your mind and spirit. But I need your help! Throughout the month, we will be collecting pictures and stories from your visits to your favorite places in our state – so share your ideas, and help us make our own travel articles highlighting The Best of Ohio!
Bible Readings
○ Week 1 Psalm 150:1-6 Backyard (Rest/Sabbath)
○ Week 2 Psalm 33:1-12 Local Landmarks (Reconnect)
○ Week 3 Psalm 24:1-10 Historic Hike (Renew)
○ Week 4 Psalm 8:1-9 Best of Ohio (Scrapbook)
Best of Ohio Photo Challenge
Join the challenge by texting
@bingoohio to 81010
Then text us photos of you at these places to include in our Best of Ohio Photo Album!
You may ignore the “quick question” from Remind. Trouble with 81010? Try texting @bingoohio to (657) 205-1047.
Map out your travel plans with this suggested list of photo locations in central Ohio from the challenge card.
**UPDATE** Hayden Falls has been temporarily closed. New card and map list updated to reflect this change. 6/15/2020
Travel and Leisure
Center Your Life in the Beauty of God’s World…
#SEEtheWORLD
Celebrate the glory of God’s creation.
Ryan began his pastoral ministry at Maize Manor United Methodist Church in 2014 after serving at the Church of the Messiah in Westerville, Ohio. He lives in Columbus with his wife, Mariellyn, and five children. Visit the Staff Page to learn more about Pastor Ryan.