There's a strange catch-22 that exists in some folks.  Christians seem to simultaneously glorify and hate fame.  Some pray for Oprah because of her influence and the undeniable potential she has to impact many people if she loved Jesus.  Then there are others who will reject a Christian leader who does something well and gets famous for it.  Arggh.  What is the deal?  Is God opposed to fame?

     Well, I don't think so. 

     I was listening to the audio bible this morning when 2 Corinthians 8:18 was read.  I was stunned.  Did I just hear him say that someone was famous?  What!  The shock!  The horror!  Doesn't he know that all megachurch pastors are evil because of their fame?  Doesn't he know that everyone who is famous simply must be a charlatan?  I guess God, the ultimate author of Scripture must have forgotten that little detail.  No, of course he didn't!  The fact is it's not fame that gets people in trouble, it's what a person does and what a person is famous for that should give us pause. 

     If ever there was a person worthy of fame, the man spoken of in 2 Cor. 8:18 is one of them.  This man was, indeed, famous.  The cause, however, for his fame, was not self-promotion, book sales, blog posts or scandals.  No, this man was famous "among all the churches for his preaching of the gospel."  What a great thing to be known for.  Should your church be famous by this standard?  Should you?  If so, there's nothing to be ashamed of for it is God who commends without anyone second-guessing His choice.  May I be content with the gifts and ministry scope God gives me.  May we all be so committed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the people, and ways of God that if fame ever becomes a reality, our hearts will be fully devoted to Christ so the fame only enhances our view of the ministry opportunities we have!