What America Wants to See

I looked up at the colossal masterpiece set against the dark, blue backdrop of the sky.  It was definitely imposing and strikingly beautiful.  This was the Basilica in St. Louis.  It took eighty years to build.  When I walked inside, the extensive and intricate artwork floored me.  The marble pillars held up detailed mosaics and statues, which pictured stories from Scripture of the saints and angels.  It must have required elephantine efforts to polish and finish.

As I walked the aisles, gaping in wonderment, it brought to mind the age old debate on where the line should be drawn.  When does the created become so glorified that instead of worshiping the Creator, it becomes worshiped itself?  Buildings and cathedrals like this can be amazing, but slightly distracting.  Many Protestants may look heavenward and think, "Thank goodness we're not Catholic."  "Atleast we don't make graven images."  "Thank the Lord for Luther and Calvin."

But main-stream evangelical churches today struggle with different idols.  Many churches conform to what is popular, flashy, and attractive.  In their quest to save souls, they damage the message that they are delivering.  They want to be accepted in today's culture.  They want to be what America wants to see.  Unbelievers have become so accustomed to seeing this harmonious attitude that the church assumes, that is has become blind to what the actual love of Christ can accomplish.

After the Orlando shootings, Chick-fil-a did this.  Not exactly what Liberals would expect.  Not after what the owner of Chick-fil-a made it clear what his position is on homosexuality and the like.  Not surprisingly, this hasn't really made the news.  This can be very demoralizing, but the way we change this, is by continuing to show the love of God.  When the world is met with fierce compassion, unconforming love, and tenacious grace.. it won't know what to with itself.