If you have ever seen The Muppets, you may be familiar with the elderly duo of Statler and Waldorf. Statler and Waldorf sit in a box seat in the Muppet Theater and take great delight in mocking and heckling the Muppets. They usually have the last word of the show which is a snide remark that gets them laughing at the Muppets. Statler and Waldorf have a unique position in the Muppets. They are close enough to see what is going on and offer their critiques yet are far enough away not to be involved in the events of the show.
I wonder how often as Christians we are tempted to take the position of a Statler and a Waldorf. Do we sit high above in the balcony seats only to offer critiques and snide remarks about what is happening in the world around us? Do we take great pride in belittling things that are different? Have we removed ourselves so far from those around us that we are no longer involved in their lives?
As a Christian, don’t be a Statler and Waldorf. God would rather us a light a candle than curse the darkness. Jesus reminds us that, if we follow Him, we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). Have we taken that light to places and people that need it? It’s easy to sit back, uninvolved, offering an occasional comment or critique of the world. It takes a bit more work to love the world around you and shine a light. The great beauty of the gospel is that it reminds us that God came to us when we couldn’t get to Him. God having every right to condemn a world full of sin and strife chose to redeem us through love.
Jesus was often critiqued by some of the Statler’s and Waldorf’s of His day. They condemned Jesus for spending time with sinners. However, that is exactly the reason Jesus came, to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Jesus leaves the ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost (Luke 15:3-7). O how we miss the mark when we forget Jesus taught us that we too must reach those who are lost.
So, the next time it feels easier just to sit back and complain, make a choice to shine a light. How could you help someone in need? What encouragement or truth could you share to bring clarity? How could you show the love of God to another? There is plenty of darkness in the world. When you come across it, change it by shining your light for Jesus.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. -Matthew 5:14-16, ESV