Terminal Symptoms

The intentional pursuit of happiness is a sure sign of terminal hedonism. The intentional pursuit of greatness is a sure sign of terminal hubris.

 True greatness is the byproduct of humble service. What Jesus said is not specifically religious but dependable for all humanity. “Whoever wants to be great must be last of all and servant of all.” Matthew 20:26-27; Mark 9:35; 10:43-44.

 True happiness is the byproduct of the blessedness Jesus illuminated in the Beatitudes. Matthew 5:3-12; Luke 6:20-22. This is not pious sentimentality but radically countercultural. Imagine the reaction if this was posted where posting the Ten Commandments is sometimes advocated.

·         “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

·         “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 

·         “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 

·         “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 

·         “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 

·         “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 

·         “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 

·         “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

·         “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”