The deaths of pop culture icons Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett have certainly captured the attention of millions throughout the U.S. and the rest of the world. Michael Jackson's death in particular, maybe because of his vast cross-cultural appeal, seems to have many people reflecting on his life and on his music. As I watched the media coverage recognizing the lives of Michael and Farrah, I couldn't help thinking of Acts 20:24, "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." There's no denying that the lives Michael and Farrah lived on earth touched millions of people, but according to this verse the only accomplishments that they achieved during their lives are those that were pursued and won for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Nothing else, not movies or #1 hit songs, will have any lasting value if the purpose those efforts were pursued was not rooted in the gospel.
Tonight Michael and Farrah are no longer living by faith - they know for certain what lies beyond the grave. I do not know what Michael or Farrah believed about Jesus. I do not know if the Holy Spirit delivered within them the gift of faith. But I do know that neither of them are currently in possession of any of the many earthly awards they achieved, nor do they have a single penny of the fortunes they amassed during their lives. Tonight all that matters is whether or not they lived their lives for Christ.
Tonight I pray for the families, friends, and fans of Michael and Farrah - that they may, as they mourn, realize that how they live their lives matters.
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