In college, I was a self-help book devotee. It was a time when the answers to all of life’s dilemmas could be found on the shelves at Barnes and Noble or in the college library. At some point, all the rhetorical claims of those books authored by self-anointed prophets started to sound remarkably similar and utterly simplistic. I admit, I can barely recall the various platitudes and metaphors that dominated the self-help genre. I do remember, however, the idea that one should live as if their goal had already been achieved. This is a form of self-actualization. As Christians, that is exactly what we are called to do in word and in action. We are to live as if the fullness of God’s Kingdom has arrived: a joining of heaven and earth that is born of grace and fueled by love. That was exactly the work, ministry, and mission of Jesus Christ: to reveal to the world what God’s Kingdom looks like. It is a place of compassion, love, justice, reconciliation, and healing. If we are truly made in God’s image, even with our human attributes, we can each reveal God’s Kingdom. Now, that is genuinely Good News. Blessings, Pastor Tom 1 Peter 4: 7-11 (NIV) The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
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