BIBLE: Read the four Gospels

Murder and civil disobedience are not new. Neither are selfishness, violence or the pursuit of power for power’s sake. These traits (and others similar) describe us. They know no national boundaries, no racial or gender preference, and aren’t impressed with financial status. Their remedy is not found in a “national conversation,” a voting booth, well-intentioned civil rights movements or among the loudest voices on cable news.

Rather, these realities that describe us so well are as old as Genesis 3. They reflect sin … little talked about these days, but at the heart of the human condition nevertheless. No one is exempt. Sin is about pride (something to prove) and fear (something to lose). Sin is always about the condition of the heart.

There is a remedy, and only one. In the coming of Jesus, “The kingdom of God has come near.” This kingdom is where everyday life and each relationship is how a loving God wants it to be. We have a role to play: “Repent (surrender your heart) and believe the good news.”

Most of us will live for more than 25,000 days. It seems reasonable to set aside a few hours to read the four Gospels. Find a quiet place where you can read them slowly and out loud. And then read them again. The truth and grace found there just might change your heart. The kingdom of God has come near, and you can be part of it if you want to.

BRUCE GILBERT

Coeur d’Alene