Teen Icon- Legend- From Triumph to Tragedy- My Conflict

King of Pop, Michael Jackson dies at age 50. These were the headlines last Thursday and Friday that saddened not only me but the world. However,I do not think it was so much of a shock at least not for me. This event and passing of a great legend and entertainer was so similar to the King of Rock, Elvis Presley. I was a child of the 70's and a teenager of the 80's. When I was six, I remember exactly where I was when Elvis was announced as having overdosed on prescription drugs and died. I was so sad and even cried and though I did not really understand what had happened and why, I knew something very tragic had occurred. We lost someone who could have been so much more in his life even with all that he had already accomplished in life. I often wondered what all Elvis would have accomplished if he had remained healthy and stable in his life. I loved Elvis Presley- his music, his dance- they brought joy to my soul even as a young girl. This was the same feeling I had when I listened to the Jackson Five sing, dance and perform for the nation and world. They were amazing. My heart would sing and dance within me whenever I heard them sing and still does when I hear their music. Michael was different, special and extremely talented. In many ways, more talented musically and rhythmically than even Elvis. Again, we lost someone who could have been so much more even with all he had already accomplished.

As I watched Micheal's life change, in physical appearance it hurt me deep within for him. He suffered from a condition that caused his skin to look paler, but he also suffered from anorexia which also changed his facial appearance and shape. In effort to make things better he tried plastic surgery which made things much worse. I believe these outward changes caused deep emotional distress to him. He also suffered from mental anguish and torment from his childhood in the way his father abused and disciplined him. There is no wonder he seemed to be a "freak" to so many. I believe Michael even felt as though he was a freak too. But what hits me deep within as a Christian is that he was not settled on any one religion, he went from Jehovah Witnesses to possibly Islam and Kabbalah. Jesus stated in John 14:6 : "I am the way, the Truth and the life." For Michael, this is probably the most tragic part of his life- because he was searching for healing, love, peace, and joy. This can only be attained by having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and being a follower of Christ. Over the last couple of days as I have pondered and thought about Michael Jackson's life, God has laid the rich young man's story on my heart discussed in the book of Matthew in the Bible.

Matthew 19:13-24
"Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." Which ones?, the man inquired. Jesus replied, "'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'" "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

In summary, Michael had it all according to the world's standards. Fame and wealth. Although he was a very giving person, he was materialistic. What is even more unbelievable is that he was $400 million in debt and spent $30 million dollars monthly for his expenses. Shocking and unbelievable. He is a product of Hollywood and childhood fame. This type of life and world is very deceiving because it did not give him the healing, peace, and comfort he desired. Based on the information out there, it did not appear that Michael knew Jesus Christ. I wonder how his life would have been different if he would have had a personal relationship with the King of the Universe- the Messsiah- Jesus Christ. Would he have sold everything to follow Jesus? Would you sell everything to follow Jesus? I challenge fellow Christians as well as myself to make a difference in the lives of others by living the faith for Jesus and taking up our cross daily. I challenge the Christian community to pray for Hollywood writers, entertainers, actors/ actresses, comedians, singers/songwriters and famous atheletes to come to know, to follow and live for Jesus before it is too late.