"Good Works exists to connect people from all walks of life
with the poor so that the kingdom of God can be experienced.”
By Kingdom of God, we mean…
The experience of the love of God to the degree that an individual begins to have a different view of themselves and of others; a more comprehensive view of their own purpose in life and a renewed vision of the value of other human beings. Indeed, the experience of the love of God helps us to perceive what is truly important in this life and arrange our priorities and routines differently.
The experience of the unlimited forgiveness of Jesus Christ who liberates us from the burden of our deep woundedness, which occurs simply by living in this fallen world. Christ in us empowers us towards acts of forgiveness, which result in the daily routine of forgiving others who harm us either intentionally or accidentally. By grace alone, we are empowered to keep “short lists”.
The experience of the wholeness (soundness) of mind that results from the love of God and the forgiveness of Christ. This sound mind enables us to view ourselves, others and this world with a different paradigm; and causes us to persevere in overcoming evil with good. Additionally this soundness of mind empowers us to use our power for the good of others and not to harm them.
The experience of the community of the beloved where healthy yet growing relationships are formed with appropriate boundaries that inspires us toward service (which is worship) to others both intentionally and spontaneously. Inside this community is the courage to cross over the lines of racism and classism and develop authentic friendships with people who are very different from us.
The experience of the grace of God which gives us the ability to live through our own suffering and pain and the suffering and pain of others with the result that we do not become bitter and ugly towards others but rather give thanks in all things.
The experience of the wisdom of God which provides us with the daily guidance we need to navigate our own lives together with others and to guide others towards their created purpose while comforting, admonishing and encouraging them to be their best.
The experience of deep meaning in life which quenches our thirst to seek meaning only in material things and relationships.
The experiences of being free from people and systems who have treated us unjustly thus distorting the meaning of the image of God that is in us. Such a freedom allows us to look back in our life with perspective and gratitude and look ahead with hope and expectation. This is the experience of the kingdom of God!
Combing the great commandment (Mark 12:29-31) and the great commission (Matthew 28:16-20). Moving the body of Christ from associating (Romans 12:16) to serving (Job 29:12-17) to loving (Jeremiah 22:16) to knowing the poor (I Thessalonians 2:8).
The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but justice / righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit – Romans 14:12
… but seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you – Matthew 6:33
…as you go, preach this message: ‘the Kingdom of Heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. –Matthew 10:7-8
