Christian hope, as presented by C. S. Lewis, is a fundamental theological virtue, characterized by a continuous orientation towards the eternal world. This perspective is not seen as escapism but as a vital aspect of Christian life. Lewis argues that this heavenly focus has historically been the driving force behind significant positive impacts on the earthly realm. He points to examples like the Apostles, the builders of the Middle Ages, and the English Evangelicals who abolished the slave trade, all of whom profoundly shaped the world because their minds were set on Heaven.
Lewis posits the principle that "Aim at Heaven and you will get earth 'thrown in': aim at earth and you will get neither." This suggests that prioritizing the eternal often leads to positive earthly consequences as a byproduct, whereas focusing solely on earthly goals is less likely to yield lasting fulfillment. This idea is linked to the inherent human longing for something beyond what this world can offer. Lewis suggests that earthly pleasures, though blessings, are ultimately unsatisfying and serve as hints or echoes of our true home in Heaven.
The Christian understanding of this deep longing is that it indicates we were made for another world. Rather than falling into the "Fool's Way" of perpetually chasing earthly pleasures or the "Way of the Disillusioned 'Sensible Man'" of suppressing these desires, the Christian way involves actively desiring Heaven, our "true country," and making the pursuit of it the main focus of life. Scriptural imagery of Heaven is symbolic, attempting to convey the inexpressible joys of eternity. Ultimately, a focus on the eternal, driven by Christian hope, provides the motivation and perspective for meaningful and impactful engagement with the present world.
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