Chasing the American dream is a cultural phrase that alludes to things such as purchasing a home, having a rewarding job, and securing a sound financial retirement. There are other things that are added depending on different value factors. I have always thought of chasing the American dream as being synonymous with being an American citizen. I saw it as something in conjunction with striving to be a good disciple of Christ. I then read a question in a book I am reading that made me take stock. The author asked, “Are you chasing the American dream or God’s dream?” The question itself can be understood differently depending on our experience living in this country. For me it forced me to look in the mirror and ask myself if I have sought to have the church reflect what I understood to be our American Christian culture or has my desire been to have the church reflect the design of the church that I read in the New Testament? I assure you that those two are not always aligned. At this point, I am pondering, asking, reflecting, and challenging thoughts I have had to date. I invite you to ponder, ask, and challenge along with me.
Have a blessed week, Vic