Better the myth than the truth

Some people seem to prefer having their myth rather than knowing the truth.

Revered Christian Artifact Turns Out to Be Fake

Jeanette Marsh, deputy leader of the town council, said: “It’s like the magic has been removed from Shepton Mallet. I’m not sure there’ll be any need to change any names in the town but it’s a shame the myth of the amulet has now burst.”

The impression one gets from the town council deputy leader is that she regrets the truth coming to light and would have preferred having the myth, if she could. The myth brought “magic,” the truth is dull.

Some people feel the same way about the simple truth of the gospel. It needs dressing up. Let’s provide it some shiny artifacts. Hang some bangles around its neck. Lights, drama, music, flash. More sizzle to the steak.

Living out the gospel daily seems drab. Rubbing your fingers over a “genuine” artifact, something you can touch and feel — now, that’s exciting.

When the amulet was found, there was suspicion it was not genuine. But better the carnal mind that needs a concrete sign than the faith that walks without sight.

Never mind that the Christian artifacts given by the New Testament are Christians living and speaking the gospel. This, indeed, is vibrant, mind-boggling, heart-stopping. This is the difference between the tinny myths and the corpulent, vigorous truth.

Would you be the genuine article for Christ?