14 December | EVERYONE
«Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.» 1 John 2:15-17
Christian’s dream was to shine. Like a star in the middle of the blue sky. Like an explosion of the firmament in the wake of the morning. Shine with his own light. Receive the applause, be acclaimed, and honored. In his endless nights of delirium, he dreamed he was walking on the streets. The crowds ran after him for an autograph. He imagined himself surrounded by pretty girls, smiling for the cameras, clouded by flashes, waving his hand at his admirers.
And he shone. But his dazzle was short-lived. He faded away consumed by foolishness.
How many stars, like Christian, shone in this life! Some, more; others, less so. Applauded, acclaimed, idolized. Time extinguished them. Today only memories remain. Time! Oh, unescapable time! Severe, unforgiving, cruel time. No one escapes your hands. Your shadow advances terribly over any mortal.
That is why John warns us against loving the values of this world instead of following God’s ways. The Father’s kingdom is not a material kingdom. You cannot see it or touch it. The senses do not perceive it. We can only look at it with the eyes of faith. Faith is believing and trusting. To shine in the Father’s kingdom, you need to get out of the materialism that surrounds you; spread your wings and fly into the dimension of eternal values. It is far from the flesh; it has to do with the spirit.
Take Action
How can you apply today’s advice? Make Jesus the center of your daily experience. Look for Him every morning. Do not prioritize the pursuit of glory. Brightness seduces, deceives, and kills. Ask the moth. It will respond to you with its wounded wings, with its pain, and with its untimely death. Sing “Do Not Love the World” (if possible, with your family).