A TIME OF TESTING

Remember that sick feeling when you got to class and found out there was a test? I wouldn't be surprised if something like that was going on right now. The Lord is good to illustrate His life lessons in living color for us before our very eyes. And that test would be an indication of where our heart lives.

Whatever am I talking about?

What if a godly person were to die in the next few months? It might be someone who had done great good in the world. It might be someone whose example was to serve others and lift the Lord consistently. Then the funeral would be in stark contrast to the memorial service we are about to observe for Michael Jackson. Our Father is just kind enough to make that obvious comparison for us.

The tortured Michael Jackson is about to be buried, but not before people can take the final advantage of him. We are hearing reports that Ebay is scalping tickets to his "funeral". What a charade! How much is "tacky" squared? This poor soul who hid behind Neverland gates and pay-offs and even behind the hair down in his face...will now be put through yet another opportunity to be used as the cash cow.

So what is this test? The test will be taken by the public. They will say by their clamoring adoration who they "vote for" to honor and hold high. There's no question that MJ was given huge talent to create music and dance. But what was that talent used for? Is he why people grope their crotch now as they dance? Mr. Jackson has an amazing following that he might have used to point the way to the Lord. Were there any high thoughts that he influenced others to think? Now his life is celebrated for it's quirky factor - a black man who crossed the color line in his popularity, but who never quite fit comfortably in his own skin.

Last Thursday the King of Pop opened his eyes to see the true King of Kings. All his life is now being examined before the Judge of all men...the One whose name is Holy and Pure...the One who loved Michael's soul as none other loved him in this life. If Michael Jackson does not know this King, all his money/fame cannot help hide him now.

And if there were two funerals, people would have a chance to reflect and decide to pattern their lives after a life that has enduring value. Call it a legacy test.

"And just as it is destined that each person dies only once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died only once as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again but not to deal with our sins again. This time he will bring salvation to all those who are eagerly waiting for him". Hebrews 9:27,28 NLT