So here we are. Oxford. England. The United Kingdom. From the very beginning- our arrival on the tarmac at Heathrow- London did not disappoint. The foggy, overcast, grey-looking city was sunshine to my soul; for it was exactly as I always supposed London to be. Of course, the sky cleared a little by the time we left the airport on a bus a few hours later, but I will never forget the exultation of the sight of London precisely as she has usually been portrayed to me.
 Oxford was a bit different. I hardly knew what to expect. Tired from the all-night flight, I dozed off and on to the sight of green meadows and quaint far-off houses nestled in between. I roused myself as we began drawing closer and closer to Oxford, in eager anticipation of the inspiring architecture and lavishly displayed history. Ready to be charmed, even the first section of older town pleased me. But as we drew nearer the city center, the grandeur and splendor of the true Oxford everyone pictures when they think of the town came into sight. I became overwhelmed with the beauty, the history, the spirit of it.

  I have not rambled through the city with my friends as much as we hope soon to do, for a walking-tour is set for tomorrow with a large group of other summer study students; but I have been greatly impressed this first day with Oxford. It has certainly not fallen short. Every little side street or narrow alley-way seems to lead to unfathomable treasures of varying kinds, and it will be my joy and delight to explore this unique and amazing city for the six weeks I am studying here.

  However, as I thought through these things, a challenge was whispered: Do I, as a Christian, endeavor to seek out a better knowledge of my Lord? I certainly intend to devote boundless energy exploring the treasures of Oxford. Can the same be said about my attitude toward my relationship with Him? If the glories of Oxford only become more breathtaking the closer one travels to the city center, then how much more so will the surpassing glory of God be the closer the intimacy is?