I found a definition for compromise that will likely challenge us all. If someone compromises themselves or compromises their beliefs, they do something which damages their reputation for honesty, loyalty, or high moral principles. As a believer I would use the word witness in place of reputation. Let me say that agreement and compromise are two biggies for me. I am very careful that my agreement does not open the door to compromise. Why so careful? It is easier to be watchful, than to find that you have drifted when you were not alert, and now you have to get back!
A friend shared a picture that really spoke to me about the world’s perception of who Christians are, and exactly what we will tolerate. It was so eyeopening. It really spoke of compromise to me, and not subtly, but as a clear demonstration of just how far things have gone. Mine is just one example of many that we see every day.
Lego is iconic for so many of us, and it is something we have either grown up with, have given our children, or even grandchildren. It is a toy that remains a good choice for developing dexterity, and building important skills to thinking critically. It takes concentration and focus, especially when you get into the sets that are for older individuals, and adults. We all love Lego!
What I am about to say now may seem like I am opening a hornets nest, but at the end of the day we all must take a stand. If I am drawing a line in the sand, then you will clearly know which side you are standing on, as will I.
Lego has put out an Advent Calendar/ Harry Potter set. Are you saying, what is the big deal, or are you not surprised? I was not surprised, but not in agreement either. What I saw in this case was light and darkness sharing the spotlight, and this will never be ok with me. Lego has taken Advent and put it side by side with witchcraft. Many will not see this as a problem, because they love Harry Potter, and see it as harmless. They will merely see it as a vehicle leading up to Christmas, including many Christians. Even non believers celebrate Christmas as a festive time to gather with family, friends, and exchange gifts, so this calendar adds an element of fun. Yet, for believers, those who know the difference between darkness and light, it should be obvious that the holiness of the season, the clear connection to the Savior, is missed completely. Yet, Lego is not alone in using the advent season to sell a product. Many manufactures will use the popular toy of the moment in these calendars. Furthermore, Lego cannot be held accountable for this calendar. They don’t force anyone to buy it. No, it is up to us to make a clear distinction.
Advent is a season of the liturgical year observed in many Christian churches as s time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas and the return of Jesus at the Second Coming. This was from Wikipedia.
What I realized is that for many Christians the cross over between good and evil has become blurred when it comes forward in books, movies, toys, and anything that is made to get the attention of children. Honestly, if it gets their attention it has already gotten yours.
When Harry Potter came on the scene it appeared to have a global appeal. That particular summer I saw children reading the book everywhere I went in airports, restaurants, lines at stores, parks, absolutely everywhere. The children were caught up in it, as well as the adults, many who applauded it as good literature.
Harry Potter is just one example of how the supernatural allure of witchcraft has creeped into our society. If you read the Bible you know that the spirit realm is more of a reality, an eternal reality, than even what we experience as flesh and blood human beings. We are soul, and body, but our spirit is not diminished because of soul or body. Our spirits are eternal, so they are draw to know and understand the supernatural.
When we became believers we were changed, and our spirits were redeemed. Holy Spirit took up residence and our sanctification process began. We became aware of the difference between holy and unholy, good and evil, and what is of God and what is not. As this process continues, we as children of God, come to understand our true identity. An identity that is not of this world, but one which takes its identity from heaven.
You can tell that I am stirred up about this particular Lego toy, but I really hope you don’t miss the reason. Whenever that which is holy, the season of Advent, and that which is not, witchcraft, are side by side like in this instance, it is never good. We are compromising our Christian beliefs when we allow something like this to stand. It may be childlike in its approach, but we need to see it for what it is. Our eyes must be open, so that we discern what is good and from God, and what is evil and from the devil.
There is a question we all must ask ourselves. If we give this calendar, or any Advent calendar, to a young person, are we bringing clarity or confusion?
Matthew 24:24-25 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See I have told you beforehand.