Pastor’s Note – July 24, 2021

“IMAGE IS EVERTHING,” right? It certainly was for the successful ad slogan for a camera company using a flamboyant, long-haired tennis star. The slogan captured not only the imagination but also the cultural conversation around whether it is right to promote style over substance.

This slogan also captures my philosophy on sunglasses. I own a pair of slick Randolph Engineering Aviators (normally $350), and I got my wife a pair of Gucci ($495!) sunglasses. Impressive, right? Now, before you accuse me of excess, allow me to explain. I purchased them in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown from a man who sold them both to me for under $20 total…which means they aren’t real. They are fake.The image they project doesn’t match the reality of what they are, but oh do we look good in them (opinions expressed by the author are their’s only).

Jesus had a lot to say to those who practice the “image is everything” ideal in our spiritual lives. While we are bombarded with messages that reward style over substance in advertising, social media, and societal pressure, Jesus says we are to be different. Not only should we be different in outward activity but also in our inner heart. How will we know we are living with right motivations? Jesus answers in His famous Sermon on the Mount by calling us to a Different Kind of Motivation. Be sure to listen to the worship set as you prepare for worship.

Can’t wait to show it to you this Sunday!

Pastor Nate Newell