Tom Cox riding Beauty at Kohkohmah

Sometimes we forget that many of the gatherings of God’s people in biblical times occurred outdoors. Consider Moses teaching the Israelites, the preaching of Ezra and Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. We get so accustomed to our nice, modern buildings with climate control, cushy seats and state of the art technology that we may fail to appreciate the simplicity of worshipping outdoors.

At least once a year, I get to experience a worship service that resembles those meetings of long ago. For the past few years, I have had the pleasure of preaching for the historic church service at the Koh-Koh-Mah & Foster Living History Encampment that takes place near Kokomo, Indiana. I wear clothing from the 18^th century, and ride a horse to the natural amphitheater where about 400 people have gathered to worship. We enjoy the beauty of God’s creation as we sing, pray and hear from God’s Word. There is something special about worshipping outdoors, far away from the everyday cares of life. The atmosphere seems more relaxed, yet at the same time there is a reverence for God that is very real.

I suppose that buildings are necessary to protect us from the weather as we worship. But it sure is nice to get out of my routine occasionally and worship outdoors. I think everyone should try it every now and then.