It seems as though recently I have been faced with some challenges. We all have challenges that we face all the time. If we didn't, life would be boring. They cause us to grow. It's part of the process of becoming who we will be. Sometimes the challenges I face I have faced before. Sometimes the thought process, the beliefs, the values, and the goals that I have need to be re-examined for authenticity. If you hang a priceless painting in a gallery and a thief replaces it with a copy, you would never know it unless an expert examines. But who is the expert in life?
There are a lot of answers to this question, but the one I come to tells me about a kingdom that isn't of any earthly origin. It's kingdom is found in the hearts of people who have experience Love in a way few do, who have come face to face with the Creator. Why do I need to make a stance on politcal issues if I choose to love. Real love does not force itself on anyone, nor does it force is ways or beliefs. Real love gives a choice.
I wonder what the world would look like if the church chose to live in this different kingdom. What would happen if we abandoned the things of this world for the hope of another way of living. What radical way of living could allow people to experience love in it's truest form.
Maybe the words "this is eternal life, that they may know You, the one true God, and the Son that you sent" can best be summarized like this....this is eternal life, that we know love, and we love. My challenge is to love. I face it everyday.