Civilization is a veneer, a very thin one that will be stripped away to make clear what we do to get along. The world keeps telling us that there is something wrong for Christian behavior to work (it seems). Philippians 3:20-21 (New King James Version) 20  For our citizenship is [already] in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21  who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. There becomes a change in your allegiance when you realize what you are really doing …not Republican, Elk, or any other organized thing first. This way is doomed, and it is the very best men have come up with. Second becomes a fundamental change in values. Your purpose is to be prepared, and your mission is to tell others about it. This is the reason for living …now. There are specific processes to prepare for the Kingdom. Many think they need to work at what will be needed in the Kingdom, by measuring against other people. God is going to measure us by our developed abilities in this life, right? Or can God develop other abilities. To have talent and waste it is a sin. God can multiply your abilities. THIS is the Training Ground. Every Day, every DAY you have an opportunity to prepare for the Kingdom of God!

Gary Petty

Beyond Today Presenter, United Church of God Pastor

Gary Petty is a 1978 graduate of Ambassador College with a BS in mass communications. He worked for six years in radio in Pennsylvania and Texas. He was ordained a minister in 1984 and has served congregations in Longview and Houston Texas; Rockford, Illinois; Janesville and Beloit, Wisconsin; and San Antonio, Austin and Waco, Texas. He presently pastors United Church of God congregations in Nashville, Murfreesboro and Jackson, Tennessee.