The Paradox of Flourishing

We are meant to flourish—not just to survive, but to thrive; not just to exist, but to explore and expand.

This statement comes from Andy Crouch’s new book, Strong and Weak: Embracing a Life of Love, Risk, and True Flourishing.

The question is, how do we attain “true flourishing”? How do we shape a world in which people really experience a life of abundance and goodness and joy and peace?

To find the answer, Crouch points to Jesus, who revolutionized the world through both his strength and his weakness. His strength was expressed in his power to heal, to change lives, and to speak with boldness against the religious leaders of his age. But none of that strength would have made a lasting difference had it not been for the weakness he exhibited at the cross.

This is the “paradox of flourishing.” True flourishing is possible, not when we live only in weakness and vulnerability, and not when try only to exert power and influence over others. True flourishing is possible when we live lives that encompass both weakness and strength.

As strange as this paradox may seem, at Flourish San Diego, we believe that understanding this truth is essential for the church. That’s why we’ll be talking about the “Paradox of Flourishing” at our next Flourish San Diego Collective Lunch on August 2.

And (if you’re in the San Diego area) we’d love to have you join us!

Here are the details:

What: Lunch with a discussion of “The Paradox of Flourishing”

Where: the new Flourish San Diego offices (13230 Evening Creek Dr S #217, San Diego, CA 92128)

When: Wednesday, August 2, noon-1:30 p.m.

Cost: $15

Why: Because God wants to flourish the world through your church!

How to register: At the Eventbrite invitation HERE

We hope you’ll be able to join us for this important and encouraging time together! Feel free to contact us with any questions.

Again, to register for the Flourish Collective lunch on August 2, click HERE.

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Geoff Hsu

Dr. Geoff Hsu is Executive Director of Flourish San Diego. Geoff aims to lead others to be apprentices of Jesus who help people and churches become who they were created to be so they may join God to help our city and world flourish. He believes that the dynamic, life-giving message of Jesus has been obscured from people who seek to find meaning and purpose in Him, and works to help recover that message and faithfully communicate it to people today.

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