Pope Benedict XVI says that Being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, or a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction. 

C.S. Lewis says that there are 5 physical descriptions of heaven: 1) Being with Christ, 2) Being like Christ, 3) Being illuminated, 4) Being entertained and 5) Having a position (as sons of God). These are earthly representations of the real, spiritual heaven.

I believe that a Christian experiences the physical descriptions of heaven while he is still in Jesus’ Kingdom on Earth. And he bears something of that heaven with him so that the rest of us can have a glimpse of it.

You cannot make the encounter or event happen, but you can prepare yourself, so to let God know that you are willing to receive His outpouring. And the Bible says that he who seeks shall find.

The most effective thing you can do is get together with other Christians to discuss the teachings of the Church as presented in recent Church documents. This will help you to grow in understanding of the Bible, the Church, and the state of Christianity in the world. And in addition, you will have the support of brothers.

At St Max, we currently have at least 3 different groups that do this:

Getting to know more about God and your faith takes priority over service. Let your service grow out of your knowledge and love of God.

Remember: this does not replace your sacraments.

Regards

Tom Neugebauer