You shall not make for yourself an idol ... for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God. Exodus 20:4-5 [NIV]
Last weekend, my husband and I celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary with a trip to Vegas.
We walked (oh, how we walked!) through the vast number of bustling resorts and casinos along the iconic Vegas strip, marveled at the brilliant architectural detail, rode a roller coaster, (maybe my idea) and ate far too much, which necessitated more walking ...
Ringed by the sculpted Rocky Mountains at sundown, we took in a panoramic view of Sin City (aptly named) from the observation deck of the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas.
Among the memorable experiences was an exclusive VIP pass that enabled me to meet Donny Osmond—the iconic singer/songwriter/performer. When I was in middle school, he was my "teen idol" ... and, admittedly, I still follow his successful career six decades later.
So, yes, Mary got to meet her idol.
While it was an exhilarating and humbling opportunity to shake Donny's hand and get a photo op (see Facebook post, March 9, Mary Albers Felkins), I couldn't help but consider the insidious nature of idolatry.
Unequivocally, Donny is a talented guy who's dedicated to his wife and family, while maintaining a rock-solid fan base. No doubt, he's done remarkable, benevolent things.
But in time, the razzle-dazzle of emotion of having met Donny will fade and, successful as he is, the guy can't save me from myself.
The lights of Vegas will flicker out against the radiance of Jesus's glory when he returns.
And when Jesus does return, what will he find us admiring, idolizing, or placing our trust in? On what or whom will our hearts and minds be set? (Colossians 3:1-3)
The greater question is: On what or whom are our hearts and minds set on ... right now?
How easily we let things like material stuff, entertainers, dare I say politicians, ambitions, pride, intellect, achievements, or people's admiration of us topple Jesus off his rightful place of authority in our hearts and minds.
You shall not make for yourself an idol. (vs 4)
This isn't a haughty demand exacted on God's people. It's motivated by his unfailing love. He is the fulfillment of everything our hearts are searching for and that which our idols promise—and inevitably fail—to do for us.
We're commanded to adore, serve, and worship Jesus. God is a jealous God who wisely created us to be satisfied in him alone.
Let's courageously ask God to introduce us to the idols taking up real estate in our hearts and minds.
He's already paid the cost of 24x7 VIP access to his throne room and is delighted to welcome us into his presence.
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