In the culture of consumerism, we can also hear the serpent’s invitation to become like gods. Supermodels stare back at us from billboards with their otherworldly beauty. Creams promise to beat aging, exercise equipment creates the illusion that we can stave off the decaying of our bodies, and achieve immortality. Perfect families of demigods in designer casual wear eat together in their heavenly homes, glancing out from billboards at us with serpentine eyes, inviting us into this ancient seduction. And so like Adam and Eve we fall, we cannot but be seduced by the sheen and shine. God’s shocking response to this act of seduction is to move in an opposite direction. Whilst the serpent’s question was an invitation for humans to become like gods – God becomes human. Whilst we are seduced by our culture’s promise of a regal life of entertainment and pleasure – God gives up his royal place of privilege to be born amongst straw and manure. Through our purchases we seek unfettered freedom and cosmic autonomy – God reduces and lowers himself, taking the place of a servant. We try and beat death by buying more stuff – God, who did not live under the curse of mortality, comes and willingly dies on a cross. The serpent seduces, his questions lead to death, both earthly and spiritual – Jesus invites, calling us to follow and to serve, his actions lead us to life in fullness. From Cameron Semmons - The Zoo In You. Text by Mark Sayers webcameron/writings.php
Posted on: Sat, 29 Jun 2013 22:20:12 +0000
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