On being famous...

It's an age old question.

What would you rather have... Wealth, Power or Fame?

The answer always seemed obvious to me... "All three!"

I was attending a birthday party last night and in the "media room" there were photos of famous people all over the walls. Elvis, Eric Clapton, Kobe Bryant, Marilyn Monroe, Humphrey Bogart, Marlon Brando and the list could go on and on... It was a great party, celebrating the life of a good friend.

My iWitness...

Wealth, power and fame. The ultimate trinity of seduction.

What is it that is so attractive about this three headed monster? Now, isn't this interesting. I am assuming that these three traits are somehow incongruent with the Christian outlook on life. They are not necessary evils, but they are slippery roads that could lead to a very destrucitve end.

But then again, look at Billy Graham. He has wealth, power, fame, all for the casue of Christ. How he has managed all of three is a true testament to his faith and to the work of the Holy Spirit.

I have to confess...I struggle with these three.

I would love to have millions of dollars. I know that I would use them to build up the kingdom. At least that's what my mind says now.

I would love to be powerful. I would use that power to influence and broker peace around the world. Or would I?

And to be famous! Yes! To be recognized in every corner of the world, wow! What great things I could accomplish for Jesus. If that were to happen I have a feeling I would be so focused on myself that I would have a very difficult time keeping my eyes on Jesus.

Julie and I were attending Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin last summer. It's a weeklong music festival that features musical acts on at least 15 different stages all day for a week. It is amazing!!
On one little makeshift stage tucked back behind some trees was a guy playing his guitar and singing. He had a crowd of about 30 watching him and appreciating his creative talent. It was the lyrics, particularly the chorus of this song that has haunted me for the last seven months...

I'm a good good boy
I always listen to the angel on my shoulder
But if the devil called me by my name
And asked if I would trade it all in for fame...
I don't know

It's that last line that is so honest and haunting... "I don't know..."

Oh Lord, help me to know...

And that's my iWitness...
Laugh often and fear not!
David!