The cult of success leeches into everything .... our souls, spiritual practices, family, relationships, bank balance, hopes, dreams, and desires .... it's a bastard to avoid. It kicks the tires of humility and kindness, causing us to second-guess ourselves. When you think you are done striving, it appears around the corner dressed up like Jim Carey in The Mask and teases you again.
Biblically and logically, the church should be the place of immunity. A shalom. A respite from trying to get it all right and move forwards. A space dedicated to helping put water on the fire of our greedy gut and image-motivated tendencies —— encouraging us to leave our LinkedIn profile and achievements at the door. We are all one here.
The obvious spiritual antidote is creating cultures inviting us to 'Come as you are.' Communities that major in 'God loves you just as you are' messaging fitting perfectly with the gospel. Jesus came to ring out loud and clear like an exuberant Salvation Army kettle swinger outside Walmart. 'I've come to tell you to quit the treadmill of trying. Come to me just as you are. You are great, just as you are.
God loves you like a woman who wants to be a mother more than anything else. He loves you like the moment she sets eyes on her child for the first time. He loves you like that ... and over and over again.
We give so much airtime to applying makeup to look more attractive to God. If you do this, believe that, or pray into this, then life in the spiritual cosmos will be sweet. The pastors tend to look successful. The worship leaders look successful and often choose songs urging us to be better in some way.
I know we need guidance. We need teaching. But how often do we forget to say the main thing? God loves you right now.
My church heyday was a Vineyard time, complete with a John Wimber vibe. We belted out that Michael W Smith song over and over, More Power More Love. I loved that song. More Power, More Love. More of You in my life.
Today I want to whisper the 'P' word and just cry more love, more love, more love, more love .....show us how to love.