A year ago a window salesman came by our house. The gentleman discussed various options and how they’d upgrade the curb appeal of our house. Sort of ho-hum. Then he took a heat lamp and shined it on the demonstration window. While the lamp side was too hot to touch, the opposite side barely felt warm. The quality of construction and the energy savings caught my attention. I didn’t need curb appeal, I needed high caliber windows.

Peter brought a high caliber argument into one of his letters to fellow believers: We did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

The apostle didn’t point out the positive lifestyle changes or health benefits one may incur by following Jesus (though study after study point to religious devotion as a factor in a long and happy life). He did not promise ease or wealth, or use flattery or sleight of hand.

Instead, Peter called attention to the majesty of Jesus, the need to see Jesus as Savior rather than a grantor of favors. He’s not the godfather, he’s God, one with the Father. I’m better when I come to see Jesus as a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Don’t settle for cleverly devised myths when the topic of faith comes up. Point to the real thing, to strength where we need it most. Don’t get me wrong, the side benefits of Jesus are unmatched. But his majesty and power far exceed his curb appeal.

1 Peter 1:16-19

Photo by Nicolas Solerieu