This is an adapted version of a presentation at the 2023 World Conference in Independence, Missouri, USA. 

By Wim van Klinken 
Presiding Bishopric 

I believe! 

I believe in and envision a world we traditionally call Zion, the peaceable kingdom, the kingdom of God. 

I envision a world where we no longer ask ourselves, “Who is my neighbor?” We simply know; we feel it in the core of our being. No more poor, no more marginalized, no more gentiles, no more “others.” 

I envision a world where we all dare to do the unthinkable, to have uncommon compassion for all and all of God’s creation. A world where we no longer deplete Earth’s resources. A world without the urge for revenge. A world where we no longer focus on what is mine and what is yours. A world where we no longer use the word deserve. A world where the lion and the lamb lie together. A world where God’s generous compassion is lived, because there is no fear for the future. No concern for our financial well-being, because we live in a world where all share to the benefit of all, not just with those we like or are acquainted with. 

Can you imagine such a world? Can you envision a world where God’s generous compassion is ingrained in all, in you and me? I do. I am a believer. I believe that if we truly jump on the wagon, if we truly have faith, if we truly join the movement of God’s generous compassion, we will become who we are called to be, Community of Christ. 

Share the peace of Christ. Share the compassion of God. Sharing the love of God will get us there, a new creation, a new reality, God’s vision for the church. 

It is imperative to understand that when you are truly baptized into Christ you become part of a new creation. By taking on the life and mind of Christ, you increasingly view yourselves and others from a changed perspective. Former ways of defining people by economic status, social class, sex, gender, or ethnicity no longer are primary. Through the gospel of Christ a new community of tolerance, reconciliation, unity in diversity, and love is being born as a visible sign of the coming reign of God. 

Do you have the courage to share? Do you have the courage to join the movement of God’s generous compassion? 

Share your abundance. Make it a New Year’s resolution. Share your resources generously, so others also can experience God’s generous compassion.