Heads turned as President Obama’s face shined on the cover of Newsweek, blatantly crowned in the glory of a colorful halo. Such an image makes it official that it’s never been more acceptable to take a stand for who you are and what you believe. The big announcement that shocked the world will undoubtedly make “coming out” more widespread, so instead of being judgmental, why don’t more Christians get on the fence with standing out and taking pride in and for what they believe? Despite all the pastoral turmoil, this year has been a proactive and reputable year for faith. Recently, a lot of heavy hitters have openly come out.
According to Jet Magazine, Bishop T.D. Jakes rise “from the pulpit to pop-culture” is what works. Recently Actress Meagan Good opened up to several Media outlets professing her faith, and controversial rapper Nicki Minaj expressed to “Nightline” that God was her hero. Even Mega-church Pastor Jamal Bryant jokingly proclaimed Tim Tebow the thirteenth disciple, as the Pro football player stunned the world with statistical signs and wonders. There was also surprisingly, much ado when Billionaire Media mogul Oprah Winfrey confessed Christ during one of her ‘Lifeclass’ tours in NYC. And after news of Rihanna “living her life for God” the string of events only further proclaim: It’s OK to “come out”.
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Seventy Six to eighty percent of Americans consider themselves to be Christians. However, as the world, especially the United States is now in such a perpetual debate over what lifestyles are acceptable, regardless of what opinions will come and go; all those who stand unflinching for what they believe are winning. What truthfully works will stand, no matter who endorses it. However, the lifestyle of faith is making a major impact, not only in spiritual circuits, but now in mainstream media. Last year Gospel artists Mary Mary were truly “something big”. It seemed like every time we turned on the TV they were on it. Among other things they dominated major events like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Ceremony and now they have their own reality T.V. show, becoming the first Gospel artists to have a feature show on a non-faith based network.
Mary Mary’s unconventional, yet uplifting sound has opened the door for a new generation of
Gospel artists to top the Billboard charts like Flame, Lecrae, and the family group Forever Jones. Beyond pop culture, Jesus culture will definitely always be hot in entertainment media. Overall it’s been a good year for faith, and faith is a good value for life. A sense of knowing who you are and standing firmly for your beliefs has never been more popular. Sex sells, but confidence sells better.
– April Byrd– @aprilinspired
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