American- what?

The name itself should give it away. American Idol is a much watched, much loved show in more countries than the country named. With a subtle mix of celebrity dreaminess and a down to earth involvement of the viewers, American Idol has leaped its way to the top of the current entertainments of America. Every year it is the same. People from all over America come to show their singing stuff to the animated judges, Randy, Paula, Simon, and the new addition, Kara. Eventually, if the contestants make it far enough, America will then decide their fate. More accurately put, America will then decide who will be the next celebrity/celebrities to be worshiped. The name American Idol Hits the mark perfectly. There are positive and negative elements to this show. One element, is that America has a chance to raise up unlikely, and everyday people, to the world of fame. This is positive, and negative. The positive side, is that this element reveals that you don't need to have money, amazing good looks, or connections to become well known and loved by people you don't even know. All you need is the talent you were made with. That and some pretty good luck when it comes to the judges moods. On the other hand, fame is an unstable world, and the same people who were voting for you on American Idol yesterday, could and probably will be forgetting all about you tomorrow. 

We all agree that the draw of fame and fortune is strong, we all, in one way or another, have held that hairbrush microphone and have danced in front of that flattering mirror. But when it comes right down to it, fame in this world is not fame in the kingdom of God. So when I see those poor players, who risk dignity and pride to appear on a show that is meant to get you famous with people who may hate you tomorrow, I will try and focus more on building up my treasures in heaven. Because those treasures will last forever. 

Can you picture Jesus singing on American Idol? Probably not. Can God call Christians to pursue a life of music and song for Him? Absolutely. But does God call Christians to a life of worldly fame? Absolutely not. Fame may come, or it may not, but giving the fame to God is what we are meant to do. God actually calls us to do the opposite of pursuing worldly fame, to take up our cross and follow Him. And the rewards are greater than anything American Idol could cough up.