Influencers
Luke 16. 19 - 31
Jesus said, "There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. He called out, `Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.'
I have recently learned about "influencers." Just the term, actually...because I have watched selfie videos of several lovely young people I know showing beautiful clothes, makeup, skin care products and even travel possibilities for a long time. I thought they were just extreme selfies, and I always enjoyed them because the young people are enthusiastic, wise and clever about whatever they are talking.
Recently I learned there is a term that describes them...it is actually a way to make a living. They are called influencers, and they do just that...advertise what ever they are called to advertise, influencing people to try out the products!
Wikipedia says,
"There is a lack of consensus on what an "influencer" is. One writer defines them as "a range of third parties who exercise influence over the organization and its potential customers".[6] Another defines an influencer as a "third party who significantly shapes the customer's purchasing decision, but may never be accountable for it."[1] Another says influencers are "well-connected, create an impact, have active minds, and are trendsetters",[7] though this set of attributes is aligned specifically to consumer markets."
It made me think...what if we had influencers for God? What would they look like, what would they say?
In the gospel appointed for today, the "rich man in purple and fine linen" could have used an influencer. Instead he is doomed to Hades and poor Lazarus who the rich man stepped over for all those years is carried away by angels.
In fact, the rich man basically asks Lazarus to send "influencers" to his brothers to convince them to change their ways so they don't end up like he has!
The words from George Fox below explain how to be a holy influencer...
Be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations, wherever you come; that your life and conduct may preach among all sorts of people, and to them. Then you will come to walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in every one; whereby in them you may be a blessing.
Source: George Fox “An Exhortation to Friends in the Ministry,” in Works, Vol. 1
Where can I be a holy influencer today?
Who are the holy influencers that have crossed my path?
Who has been a blessing in my life and has shaped my decisions because of their example and their influence?
What would your selfie video look like if you were an influencer for God?
Happy Influencing on this beautiful Fall Sunday!