Russell Moore: "Bucket List" Antithetical to Christian Faith

In the 10AM chapel service this morning at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Russell Moore spoke on the kingdom of God. In one key part of the sermon, Dr. Moore spoke against the popular idea of a "bucket list." A "bucket list," according to Dr. Moore, presupposes the idea that this present, earthly life is all that there is: that "you only go around once." For the Christian, Dr. Moore pointed out, life is everlasting, and therefore there is not a limited time to accomplish one's goals.

Dr. Moore's concern in overthrowing the idea of a "bucket list" is that such an idea can lead to a life of stress and frustration. Also, trying to fulfill a "bucket list" turns a person toward selfishness, and away from being "others-directed." No one's "bucket list" includes "menial" jobs-- Dr. Moore gave examples such as scrubbing toilets or brushing the hair of the elderly-- but these jobs may be necessary for Christians who are serving the Lord through serving others. Dr. Moore proclaimed that our present, earthly life is an "internship for the eschaton" [the age to come].