Pop's Culture

Please note "Pops" is a fictional character, inspired by the best of our grandfathers and other respected older men who have poured into our lives.

How’s life? Haven’t heard from you in a minute, as you say. But by reckoning, it’s more like a millennium. Christmas is a long time to go before checking in. Anyways, I miss you. Been thinking about you a lot lately, and wondering how you hanging. 

I watched two minutes too many of that awful show you were all going on about, that girl family of rich folks in California. Are those real people? I can’t tell anymore. I have to tell you, as I look at TV and the internet, the current state of pop culture brings about a mixture of nostalgia, concern, and reflection. On one hand, I see the influence of technology and media shaping the way people interact and consume entertainment. The rise of streaming platforms, social media, and digital content has transformed the way folks access and engage with music, movies, and television shows. 

However, alongside all these tech changes we both know I’m only somewhat interested in keeping up with, I’m seeing a shift in values and morals within the world. There seems to be an emphasis on materialism, instant gratification, and self-centeredness, which can be concerning from a Christian perspective. Themes of violence, sexuality, and secularism are prevalent in many forms of entertainment, often conflicting with biblical principles and teachings. 

I know I’m old, but the world really did seem clearer back in my day. It makes me worry for my grandkids. Things can be so confusing. While I’ve been graced with a close relationship with Christ, there’s so much information out there these days – and not all of it good or trustworthy. I worry some won’t even notice Him holding out a hand to help. 

My grandkids tell me that there’s lots of good folks out there making good stuff, too, though. Their music’s not my style, but I appreciate the hearts behind it seeks the same Lord as me. Heck, I didn’t like the bluegrass my old folks listened to, playing on the porch of the country store. To each their own, I say. 

Whether through music that inspires faith, movies that convey timeless truths, or social media influencers who spread positivity, there are glimpses of light amidst the darkness. Any of us who’s ever been poking around the dark in the middle of the night on the way to the bathroom knows the power of a little light to lead the way. 

As you likely have heard me say before, I believe in the power of discernment and intentionality when engaging with pop culture. You’re good folks with good minds, so be good and use them. Whenever you’re unsure what’s good or bad in a situation, bring in the original Gangster (my grandkids call Him “OG”): God Himself. The Holy Spirit, when you invite Him into your heart, will be your guide. Remember Paul’s guidance in Galatians, chapter 5:

"My counsel is this: Live freely, animated and motivated by God’s Spirit. Then you won’t feed the compulsions of selfishness. For there is a root of sinful self-interest in us that is at odds with a free spirit, just as the free spirit is incompatible with selfishness. These two ways of life are contrary to each other, so that you cannot live at times one way and at times another way according to how you feel on any given day. Why don’t you choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence?

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19-21:It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on."

I find so much peace and joy, having invested decades getting to know the Lord. Day in, day out, He’s always been there, just as I know He will be for you. My faith provides a firm foundation amidst the ever-changing world. As I move through my own days, I hold onto to the age-old truths of Scripture and the hope found in Jesus Christ. In a world that is constantly changing, my faith remains steadfast, guiding me through the highs and lows. 

Don’t be shy writing me back. It always makes my day when you reach out. I love you for you. 

In Christ,

Pops

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