Who is James MacDonald of Harvest Bible Chapel; and why should I know of him? Why do I need to be informed as to why he was fired from his role at Harvest? An uncle of mine used to tell me that he “knows a little bit about everything and a lot about nothing.” Yes, that about sums me up.
Truth be told however, I ask these questions often. I see multitude of magazines on the newsstands covered with images of pregnant models and actresses and wonder why I need to know this; why should I care.
I can still recall watching a local early-morning news channel (which nowadays I very rarely do) and they’re reporting about one of their reporters giving birth; providing images, live-newsfeed and all.
I realize that this will not resonate with some people. Seriously though, why does the morning news think I’m tuning in to find out who’s pregnant, who’s giving birth, who’s getting married or who’s getting divorced?
There was a television show called, Cheers. It was one of the most beloved television series of all television. In the intro of the show was the catchy phrase, “where everybody knows your name.”
It was and still is a nice thought. I believe most people want little more than to be among friends (and family) who know their names. For the most part, I think, it is a part of our nature to desire to be part of a community; but more importantly, a community that knows us and still loves us.
There are also many things that can upset this desire for community; for example, the pride of mankind. Now, this isn’t an issue for most people. There are some nonetheless, who desire to be at the top of the community pyramid.
I want most of all for people to know Christ’s name. I’m not here to tell you about me. I’m here to tell you about Christ Jesus. I want you to remember His name. I cannot save you or anyone else. Only Jesus can do that.
I came across a magazine recently that bothered me. The cover was filled with a portrait of one of those mega-church pastors. Although I found the text on the cover distressing, what I found more disturbing is what was not on the cover.
In fact, where one would normally find the title of the magazine was simply the name of the mega-church pastor. Now, to be honest, I’ve never heard this mega-church pastor give a sermon. And I’m not basing my opinion or comments on the abundance of others’ views.
I am always weary of any preacher who proactively markets themselves to the world-at-large. It is obvious to me that they are not glorifying God and Christ, but themselves. As a minister, my triumph is to make Christ and Christ’s work the center of everything.