Brenda’s Blog – February 18, 2014
“Splash Kingdom – Family Waterpark”
SEEK THE KINGDOM
Matthew 6:33
The interstate billboard caught my attention. I understand the intersection of faith and work. But, is it possible we sometimes transpose the emphasis? Is this perhaps making faith a marketing tool, instead of making the market a place for our faith?
Certainly, the owners are believers who connect their company with the community of faith. I have taken my grandchildren to their fine establishment, throwing themselves mercilessly down slides and traversing watery canals. I hold no ill will, but wonder about the ad campaign.
Just as the early Christians drew the symbol of the fish in the dust to notify others of their secret meeting places, we have our own Christianese. We speak in lingo, don’t we? We draw ichthus symbols, we wear crosses, we say “bless you,” and communicate in Christian code among ourselves. We think this will add a plus to our business among the faithful.
But do we take the significance of these symbols too lightly? John Peterson, a noted Christian musician once said, “in composing I cannot approach the cross with flippancy. I cannot take this subject lightly.” Perhaps we should think carefully about the way we handle these icons.
There are Christians in business, but there are no Christian businesses. Christ died in obedience to the Father for individuals, not for corporations (or even partnerships or sole proprietorships!) Our faith should be evident, indeed, but should we reconsider the way we market our membership in the most holy of all associations?
Ours is a sacred privilege – to bear the name of Christ and to have access to His Word, and His throne room. Let’s hold this with awe, not aw-shucks!