The world is still reeling from the death of Michael Jackson. Who could believe the initial news reports? How could a pop icon be taken, just like that? If you’re my age, you grew up with Michael and the Jackson 5, and you remember which songs fit into the seasons of your life. In fact, I still have dusty 45s of early Jackson 5 hits.
As I prayed for his family and watched reports of people around the world who were shocked, grieving, and reminiscing, I couldn’t help but think about the media coverage itself. I wondered if his life would have garnered so much attention had he not sold millions of albums and amassed millions in wealth. I know. Of course not. Material success is how we’re measured in this world.
But as I was reading in Proverbs this morning, I was reminded—as always—of the way God’s Word brings perspective to the things of this world. In particular, my eyes were drawn to multiple references to “silver and gold.” Here are a few of them:
“How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding. For its profit is better than the profit of silver, and its gain than fine gold” (Proverbs 3:13-14).
“Take my instruction, and not silver, and knowledge rather than choicest gold” (Proverbs 8:10).
“How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver” (Proverbs 16:16).
Interesting. In the world you’re a huge success if you’ve made millions, yet God says we profit more when we find wisdom and knowledge. And “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” are found in Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:2-3).
As we remember the life of Michael Jackson, let’s also remember the kingdom perspective—another soul has stepped into eternity, as each of us will. Times like this should remind us once again that our lives are a mere vapor. In the end, it won’t matter how much silver and gold we amassed. What matters is whether we’ve advanced the kingdom of God and served our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father, You hold my life in Your hands. You’ve ordained the number of my days. In the short time I have, help me to live for You, to walk in Your wisdom and instruction, to glorify Your holy name, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
