God: "I looked for someone to take a stand for me, and stand in the gap" (Ezekiel 22:30)
The gospel is a call for every one of us to die – to die to sin and to die to self – and to live with unshakable trust in Christ, choosing to follow His Word even when it brings us into clear confrontation with our culture.
A contemplative focus on the beauty of heaven:
1. Frees us from excessive dependence upon earthly wealth and comfort.
2. Enables us to respond appropriately to the injustices of this life.
3. Produces the fruit of endurance and perseverance now.
4. Exerts…purifying power on the heart.
5. Teaches us about the essence of true religion.