During the holidays, we enjoy family, good friends, good food, and yes, a few good drinks! Responsibly enjoying a drink or two loosens up our inhibitions. Isn’t it interesting, then, to note that the very first impression that non-Christians had of Christians was NOT that they were sourpusses or judgmental curmudgeons but that they were drunk (Acts 2:13)?
I doubt that the crowds saw the Apostles fumbling, slurring words, acting obnoxiously, moving haltingly, staring with red, watery eyes, or appearing disheveled. No, the reason the crowds considered the Apostles inebriated was their total lack of inhibition. They showed uninhibited selflessness, lightness of being, serenity, patience, kindness, perseverance, even-keeled-ness, and mindfulness. They were truly caught thriving under the influence…not of alcohol, but of the Holy Spirit.
Interested in hearing more about this topic? If so, then I invite you to read my new book, Under the Influence: The Transforming Experience of Encountering Christ (Loyola Press). You can pre-order your copy(ies) of the book now and it will be shipped early in 2014! Just click on the link above or on the image at left.
I am more excited about this book than any I have written!
It is my hope that those who read this book will truly find that the Gospel is good news – a formula for living a life that is uninhibited by fear, anger, anxiety, or despair.
I invite you to start the New Year off by getting caught under the influence…not of alcohol, but of the One whose birth we just celebrated!
I could go on, but you might think I’ve had something to drink!
May this Christmas season and the New Year bring you abundant graces and blessings!
Peace,
Joe
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