I can recall in an edition of ‘New Scientist’ some years ago, writes Pater Massey, where they listed ten reasons to be cheerful, keys to a happy life. Among them is, ‘Do someone a good turn.’ The article explains how scientists have found a link between happiness and unselfish behaviour.
This will be no surprise to Christians who know that unselfish behaviour is one of the natural responses of people who believe in God, ‘Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vein conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.(Philippians 2:3).’ God gives us this and similar advice not to make life more difficult, but because it makes life better for all of us and especially those we meet day in and day out. We have a God who wants the best for us whatever our circumstances. Why else would he endure the torture and pain associated with Easter, except for our sakes?
Incidentally, the same article adds that: ‘to find God also contributes to a happy life.’ Alleluia, it is now scientifically proved that to become a follower of Jesus is also good for us. Thus the question now is not ‘Do you believe it?’ but ‘What are you going to do about it?’