Hello ,

In February 2014, the Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman died from an apparent heroin overdose. Hoffman was found dead in his apartment with a needle in his arm. He was 46. A year earlier, Hoffman played the part of Willy Loman, the disillusioned and empty salesman from the classic play Death of a Salesman. 

In an interview with NPR, Hoffman said Willy Loman represents "The idea that you have a vision of what you're supposed to be, or going to be, or where your kids are going to be-and that that doesn't work out." The role had a very personal influence on Hoffman. He said, "It really seeps into why we're here. What are we doing, family, work, friends, hopes, dreams, careers, what's happiness, what's success, what does it mean, is it important, how do you get it ... ultimately, what gets you up in the morning is to be loved." In the end, Hoffman said, the play is about our yearning to be loved.*

"Yearning to be loved."  That last sentence is a mouth full.  How many people have done things in their lives with that most basic desire in mind; yearning to be loved?

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."  Jeremiah 29:11

We have a Savior Who is absolutely "sold out" to us in love, care, and concern.  His heart beats with love and devotion toward His creation, and if we allow that love to come into our lives...we are never the same. 

Have a great day and God bless!

Pastor Mike / The Open Word