Christian Media...Is there anything like that? (Part 2)

I simply marvel at how much the apostles in the early church were able to accomplish, yet they lived such simple lives. I mean, thousands got saved, many others were healed, and there was such a burning passion for Christ. When Jesus sent out his twelve disciples, he told them not to carry anything. No bag, extra tunic or sandals. Now, if some of us ladies were told to leave our handbags behind...guess we would have a problem with that. I know I would! Anyway, let me digress a little, as I already have anyway.

All I am trying to say is that complacency has slowly but surely found it's way into the church and into our hearts as Christians. "Oh, those corrupt politicians?" we say. "Heh, hao ma-pastor wa Seeds of Sin? They will burn in hell," and my favourite, "Hiyo ni kazi ya gava!" >> I am merely echoing some of the most common sentiments I have heard from fellow believers. No wonder people are shying away from the gospel! By the way, I am no religious scholar or saint above and beyond reproach. The one writing this is one who has, at many points been a hypocrite but is simply trying to live right and propagate the word to fellow mankind. As I was saying, the attitude these days, is 'that's not my work.' Self has become the priority these days. Not just in matters spiritual, but in life generally. There's alot of self-help vibe going around. Christians should know better; we have the ultimate helper in the Holy Spirit. He guides us, helps us in our day-to-day struggles and is the best companion ever. So why do we focus on ourselves so much?

Back to the matter at hand. The media that purports to be in place to spread the word of God should stick to that mandate. For instance, there is an Islamic station for instance that is committed to teaching the fundamentals of their faith and engaging faithfuls in exposition and dialogue of issues pertaining their religion. If Muslims embrace their faith so passionately, then why can't we accept our own?

With regard to Christian media, maybe it is I who is not in touch with the reality on the ground. But I still maintain that we have a long, long way to go if we keep on carrying ourselves in the same way as non-believers do. Not just with regards to media, but the church all round. If at all we are to compare the way the early Church ministers lived with the manner in which modern-day Christianity is 'done,' the differences will be more than astounding. Today, the word on prosperity has been given greater weight as opposed to repentance, crucifying the flesh and dying to sin. We focus so much on amassing wealth with the notion that God wants to bless us. He does actually, but we must make seeking God our primary priority as opposed to wanting material blessings alone. Whether we get them or not, our hearts need to be content, knowing that in Him we have more than we can ask for. We need to retreat to a life of simplicity and drive our efforts to sharing the wonderful gospel with those God has entrusted us with. Instead, fame, wealth and money are what we think of and breathe. I wonder and cower in shame at what God must be thinking when he sees us doing all this.

I almost changed the title of this post because I've clearly talked more about the church and Christianity. But I've gained the insight that the media issue simply is a reflection of the standards Christianity has stooped down to. Nonetheless, there is hope. God's arms are always wide open and ready to forgive and His grace is abundant. If really we are to walk in the will of God, in what is called "taking up your cross," then we should be ready to embrace persecution, rejection, and discomfort that are connected with following Christ. We should also be ready to face ridicule and shame just as Christ did. About the media, I am of the opinion that with all the money the church (Christians) has, keeping Jesus on the airwaves should not be a problem. Then hopefully, we will not have to depend on mere mortals in the name of advertising, to stay on air. What's your take?