Hello ,
For decades the media in all its forms have created celebrities that are framed, groomed, and packaged solely for the purpose of dissemination through mass media. Many people, some living frustrated lives, live vicariously through the allegedly exciting lives of these glamorous personalities, representing hopes and dreams personally unfulfilled.
The result is that we have created synthetic celebrities whom we worship, however briefly, because they vicariously act out our noblest or basest desires. For impressionable young people, “celebrity worship syndrome” has resulted in:
- Symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Lower levels of critical thinking and cognitive abilities Impaired social skills.
- Maladaptive daydreaming that interferes with work, school, or relationships.
- Desire for fame, which is often linked with a lack of self-acceptance.
- Compulsive buying and materialism.
- Difficulties with romantic relationships.*
Even religious people aren't exempt from this challenge of focusing on people that they deem to be more "special" than others. I have watched a number of people that I have known, pay special attention to religious leaders that they watch on television, and I've heard them quote these speakers on a regular basis. These speakers become "celebrities" of sorts, and the focus can change from Jesus, to them.
"Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth." Colossians 3:2
Focusing on something besides God's kingdom can be a very natural thing to do, but also carries with it a very serious danger. When our minds get "off-track," and focused on something other than our Heavenly Father, perhaps it's time to go to "square one."
Let's ask God to help us stay focused on what is important in 2022.
Have a great day and God bless!
