Thursday, September 27, 2018

Sunday Morning Preview - September 30, 2018

“There's no such thing as bad publicity” is a phrase often associated with P.T. Barnum, the 19th century American showman and circus owner. To say that the idea expressed has gained a foothold in modern society would be an understatement of colossal proportion. 

For many in the age of monetized social media the chance to “go viral” far outweighs any antiquated sense of morally appropriate conduct or fear of scandal. Some of my younger readers may be surprised to learn that for most of human history there has existed a concept known as “infamy”, a kind of fame which was not to be desired, and a corresponding emotional state known as “shame”  that the vast majority of people felt was the correct way to feel after the exposure of shameful behaviour. Of course on a fallen planet every family has always had its fair share of notorious skeletons in the proverbial closet; until recently it was thought best to leave them there.

The idea of putting ones best foot forward, or of saving face, leads to one of the surprising revelations contained in the genealogy of Christ. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit Matthew does not show Jesus this courtesy. 

Please join me this Sunday morning at DCC as I ask the question: Why not?


Pastor Dan C.

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