I was at Mardel the other day, and I've never felt so in awe at a store before. Looking around, I was amazed at all the "Christian" things we have: Christian books, Christian t-shirts, Christian music of every genre, Christian movies, even Christian Guitar Hero. We've got it all. We've taken what the world has and made the "Christian version" of everything. What more do they want? Our stuff is just as cool as theirs.
And yet, Jesus is still not "cool" enough for the world.
Don't get the wrong idea. There's nothing wrong with expressing yourself and wearing your faith on a t-shirt. There's nothing wrong with writing a song or a book about God. However, it seems like we've created so many things that have caused us to lose touch of who Jesus really is--a loving, gracious, merciful Savior.
I remember seeing a Christian music video online. While Christians raved about the song, one person commented, "I hate it when Christians are trying to be cool." We always try to sugar-coat Jesus, giving Him an electric guitar, making Him wear blue jeans, and dressing Him up to look pleasing to the crowd.
I don't think the world wants a "cool" Jesus. The world right now is hurting, dying, and desperately crying out for Him without even knowing it. They don't need any shirt, rock song, book, or movie. They need His love, His grace, His hope. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." He didn't say, "Wear a t-shirt with My name on it so everyone will see it and think I'm cool and praise your Father in heaven." He said, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds." But, unfortunately, American Christians aren't exactly like that, are we?
Our life should be more Christian than our t-shirt, book, whatever. I think the world would better respect a Jesus that loves and cares for them than a Jesus that wears blue jeans and aviator sunglasses.
So, as we read John, let's pay attention to who Jesus really is and vow to show it to the world.
