The Death of a "Demi-god"

Yesterday was the funeral service for Michael Jackson. Before a packed Staples Center in Los Angeles, tributes were given for the "King of Pop." Since his untimely death the world has responded as if Michael Jackson had been a leader of renown upon the world's stage. All three major television networks and a host of cable networks provided almost wall-to-wall coverage of the events surrounding his death and the days that intervened before yesterday's services. Not since the tragic death of Princess Diana of Great Britain has the world seen such a response.

Michael Jackson will be remembered for many things. His type of musical interpretation radically changed the musical world. And who can forget that "moon walk" he introduced into the modern dance scene. He will also be remembered as a man who underwent numerous surgeries that radically altered his appearance. And, he will be remembered as a man who stood trial for molestation of children at his NeverLand Ranch. Some had their lives powerfully impacted by Michael Jackson; while others of us cannot even name one of his songs.

I have wondered why his death was accorded such national ceremony. Was it because he was a Hollywood celebrity? Other celebrities have died, in fact, two "super stars" passed away within hours and even days of Michael Jackson, and neither one was accorded celebrity status in their passing (I am speaking of Farah Faucett and Karl Malden). Was it because he was a famous musician? Or was it because his was a story that had been public since he was a small boy - he was one of America's "goldfish bowl" stories?

As I heard portions of the many tributes given to Michael Jackson, I did not hear any testimony to whether he had ever put his faith in Jesus Christ. Many were the accolades for what he had accomplished. Nothing said about his preparation for the eternal destination of his soul.

Through my many years of pastoral experience, I had the privilege of ministering the Good News at dozens of funerals. I was guided by the words of my father-in-law who, himself, was a pastor. He said: "Max, a funeral is not about the dead; it is about the living. The eternal condition of the dead is already determined, but you can affect a change in those who yet are living." And so I preached the Gospel clearly, pointing people to Jesus Christ who is the resurrection and the life. Oh that someone yesterday had pointed that massive audience crowded into the Staples Center and the millions who were tuned in via television to Jesus and the cross!