I usually avoid reality TV shows. My theory is life is reality enough for me, and I really don't want to watch someone else's life. However, I recently became sucked in the vortex of “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.”  While I will admit it was somewhat funny, I was deeply disturbed and saddened to see these people boasting proudly of being portrayed as inbred, ignorant hicks. I was appalled by the direction in which the parents were raising their children. A six-year-old is being taught to dress like an adult and that only looks matter in this world.  I have to admit, however, the most disturbing thought was that millions of people watch this show to have a laugh … and to help us feel superior to others. When we watch, we're saying to ourselves, “I'm glad I don't live that way.” But how do we live? Do we live proudly or in humility?
“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other people - robbers, evildoers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' I tell you this man, rather than other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 18:9-14). “
We are called to be witnesses in an increasingly evil world. Do we truly reflect His love and compassion daily, or is it only rarely seen? Do we share His word with another to plant a seed of hope and faith, or do we only look at others with prideful disdain, thankful we are not as they are. Are we the Pharisee or the tax collector?