by Timothy D Heard

Created on: October 24, 2008

An idol is a representation of something which we believe to be greater than ourselves. Something which holds greater importance, and on a humanistic level, is elevated above and beyond the level of greatness we observe in ourselves.

So who are these idols? Musicians? Movie stars? Famous athletes? Self-made millionaires? The answer is no! Why? Because there is one common characteristic shared by all of the above; they are all flesh and blood human beings just like the rest of us. They are not Gods, and they are not God!

Intelligence, talent and extraordinary ability abound within many human beings. Many of these abilities are indeed awe-inspiring and worthy of nationwide and worldwide recognition, and many who possess these abilities provide inspiration, motivation and entertainment for many people.

It is not unusual to purchase entrance into an event of which extremely talented musicians are performing, to a viewing of a movie in which talented actors are performing or to a sporting event in which highly-skilled athletes are displaying their physical abilities. It is not unusual to show our respect and admiration for talented and skilled human beings by paying money to observe, recognize and show appreciation for something that we find fascinating and we ourselves, are incapable of. This is the very basis for what the world calls "entertainment". All human beings love to be entertained; this is not unusual.

What is unusual, and downright scary, is when a human being will practically give up every ounce of their self-dignity in an excessively-fanatical attempt at involvement in an event of which these famous people are the highlight. Some people will wait hours and days in line just to gain the chance to purchase a ticket to see their favorite musical group. Some even go as far as to become "groupies" and attend every show within that group's tour. They wave banners, scream and shout from the front row, and literally fight for the chance just to touch or make eye-contact with band members. Some young girls actually cry when coming face-to-face with the members of their favorite "boy band". What type of parent would allow their young child to develop such obsessive fanaticism?

Some people pay ridiculous amounts of money just for a seat at a sporting event. They scream and wave flags, chant slogans, fight with other fans and hang posters and pictures on their wall, all in honor of their "idol". Not to mention the most self-degrading form of fanaticism; having another human being sign their name on a piece of paper or clothing so that it may be cherished and displayed for years to come. How pathetic can one get? Putting this amount of effort into idolizing another human being is equivalent to proclaiming to the world, your feelings of insignificance in comparison to this famous individual. Where is your self-pride and dignity? These people are no greater than you are.

Applaude the music of a musician. Appreciate the performance of an actor. Respect the talents of an athlete; they deserve it. But don't let your applause, appreciation and respect become worship, praise and glorification. Those belong to God, not man.

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