I Prayed for Michael Jackson
by Lisa Anderson on 06/26/2009 at 10:37 AM
Michael Jackson is dead. I heard it first through a CNN email news alert yesterday only minutes after it was confirmed. I read some of the follow-up stories and tributes, reminisced with coworkers, then drove home to a marathon set of his music being played on local radio.
I didn't cry. Despite being an icon of my generation, MJ sufficiently distanced himself from the public, the press, and, well, reality -- so as to not endear himself personally to many in recent years. It was easy to forget he was still around sometimes.
But I remember him. And I certainly remember his influence on me and my peers. I recall one day in junior high, the day after Thriller was released. One of my classmates walked into choir class at Graham Middle School with a shiny new copy of the album (the LP, of course). She had stood in line hours the night before to purchase it, and now placed the record on a table, still gleaming in its plastic wrapper, as we gathered around to gaze upon it in wonder. I still remember the hush over our circle as we admired Michael's crisp white suit and back-lit frame. He amazed us. And when Thriller went multiplatinum and MTV, Pepsi, Disney and others took MJ's image and shaped it into something otherworldly, we thought he was unstoppable.
But time and life proved otherwise. Fast-forward about 20 years. I was sitting at Focus on the Family, listening to Christian apologist Lee Strobel speak in an employee chapel. Lee looked out over the crowd and issued what I think he called the 1:1:1 Challenge. He asked us all to think of one unsaved person to pray for at 1pm each day, for one minute. I love challenges, and being an overachiever who happens to have many non-Christian friends, I decided to do a 5:5:5. I thought of several friends and family immediately. But I wondered about a fifth. I asked God to help me think of the person whom I believed to be most out of his reach -- someone who, if I was being honest, I didn't think would ever come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. And just like that, into my mind popped Michael Jackson.
And so every day for weeks, then months, then years, I prayed for the salvation of Michael Jackson. I followed him casually in the news, and it never looked good. He got weirder, wilder and more erratic in his behavior. But I continued to pray. Because that's what God called me to do.
As of today, I have no idea where Michael Jackson stood spiritually at the time of his death. But God knows. And God will decide what He does with Michael's soul. It may sound cliche, but it's devastatingly true: The King of Pop will be called to give an account to the King of Kings.
Friends called me yesterday, and, knowing my prayer connection to MJ, asked me if I'm OK. I am. For my part, I extend my sympathies to Jackson's family, friends and fans. And I'm going to keep praying. Because the power that was Michael Jackson was real, especially to a pop-loving girl in the 80s.
But the power that is Jesus Christ is greater -- great enough to snatch souls from the fires of hell. And it is this power that gives me life. And it gives me hope for that next person I'll be called to pray for. I can't wait to find out who it'll be.
1. Tami said the following at 10:50 AM on Jun 26:
Lisa -- thanks for sharing. I admit, I pray for a couple different "famous" people, too. I feel a bit odd about it; but then I think, why *shouldn't* I pray?
And occasionally I see fruit. I have prayed for one particular musician for a while. A couple years ago, he released a Christmas album, and it has a fairly personal song (which he wrote) that talks about Christ's love. Granted, I don't *really* know where he stands, but I still believe that God's at work.
And I love Strobel's "1:1:1" prayer challenge; thanks for sharing that, too.
2. eve said the following at 11:01 AM on Jun 26:
I admit: I love Michael Jackson. I always have.
I'm a Gen X-er and can't help it. He appears countless times on the soundtrack of my life.
But I'm inspired by what you wrote more than I'm even inspired by MJ.
Thanks for the possibly unintended encouragement to pray, pray, and keep on praying. And after that, to pray some more. God calls each of us to intimacy with Him through prayer. Your story inspires me to prayerfully select folk for whom to pray ...
... and keep on doing it for days, months, and years to come.
Thanks for the reminder and the inspiration.
3. KR said the following at 11:10 AM on Jun 26:
I heard a similar message as a kid, but thought that I didn't know any non-Christians personally, so I picked Maryln Manson to pray for...and kept it up throughout much of elementary school. The funny thing is I really had no idea who he was was other than that he sang trashy music and was a bad, scary man...
4. Nicole (from Boston) said the following at 11:22 AM on Jun 26:
Wow. That is so awesome. I went through a phase where I was praying often for Eminem. Who knows the effects of those prayers?? Can't wait to get the Heaven and see the results!!
And I'm sure that new fifth person will need those prayers just as much as MJ did.
5. Cassandra said the following at 11:27 AM on Jun 26:
Despite the allegations (not to be taken lightly) and the weirdness in his later years, I am a huge MJ fan and I felt very sorry for him. I feel like his death probably "put him out of his misery" and ended a long battle with mental illness, lonlieness and depression. But is he "in a better place?" I seriously, seriously hope so. I just did a little research on the spiritual advisor I saw interviewed on cable news last night, who was a Jehovah's Witness, and then read an article about how he converted to Islam last year. I hope your prayers did work, though, Lisa, and that at some point he accepted Christ. Although I don't have a lot of hope for that.
MJ's death has made me think a lot about my faith and my unsaved friends. It's awful to think that someone so beloved who had such a positive impact on the world wouldn't be in Heaven. Because what matters is not how much fame we achieve or even how much good we do for the poor or awareness we raise for good causes, but what we do with Jesus Christ.
6. Megan said the following at 11:28 AM on Jun 26:
Thank you for posting this blog entry, Lisa.
I think that you may have more power through those seemingly lost prayers than you think, and let me explain why.
It was through the deaths of The Crocodile Hunter, Anna Nicole Smith and her son, and Sadam Hussein that I came to Christ. I know, it sounds a little outlandish.
I grew up in church, did all the "churchy" things, memorized all the right verses, won awards in all the little kid program things like Awana ... went to church camp, went on all the youth group stuff ... and even made a profession of faith when I was 7.
There were no fruits. I went to college and partied like a rock star and did whatever I felt like, but certainly didn't go to church.
It was when those three people died so close together in time that I began wondering where their souls went. I was playing the legalistic game and thinking someone as immoral as Anna Nicole Smith couldn't POSSIBLY have committed her life to Christ. Then it dawned on me that truly, I was a sinner like her. And Sadam. And Steve Irwin. Then God moved so strong in me that I couldn't sleep for 2 nights. I rushed back home one weekend and talked to my Pastor about doubting my salvation ... and then I got saved that day.
God uses experiences just like that, along with some less orchestrated and some more orchestrated, to turn people to Christ.
Yeah, maybe the King of Pop is worshipping The King of Kings right now, but if not ... maybe God used your prayers, your sincere concern for his soul, to extend the gift of salvation to someone else.
I commend you for praying for someone so long!
7. Frazer said the following at 11:29 AM on Jun 26:
That's an awesome article Lisa!
8. Lucie said the following at 11:45 AM on Jun 26:
Like so many, I was simply stunned by Michael's untimely - at least to human eyes - passing. Although I was not his greatest fan, I had admired his phenomenal talent for most of my life (he was only two years my senior) and his talent, rather than his eccentricities and possible immoral behavior with young boys, is what I will prefer to remember.
I also wondered about the state of his soul, but only God knows that, and I reminded myself that we could trust Him with it. In addition, your story reminded me of how, over 30 years ago, I felt moved to pray for shock-rock star Alice Cooper, of whom I was a big fan, and received an unmistakable assurance in my heart that all would be okay. This was not confirmed until years later, but I'll never forget the experience. I'm glad you prayed for Michael, Lisa, and while I could wish you had received some assurance that your prayers were answered, I know your prayers were heard.
9. Saidahwk said the following at 11:46 AM on Jun 26:
That's awesome. I think I'm going to try that 1:1:1 thing...
10. Todd said the following at 12:10 PM on Jun 26:
Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, who had been close friends with MJ, writes this in the Jerusalem Post. Very sad.
The Tragic End of Michael Jackson: http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1245924935526&pagename=JPArticle%2FShowFull
11. Tami said the following at 1:24 PM on Jun 26:
Megan (6), thank you for sharing your testimony as well!
When we get to heaven it will be neat to see all those who prayed for us, and those for whom we prayed. It might even be our very first meeting!
Sometimes I get a (extrabiblical) picture of being in heaven on That Day, and seeing someone I never met on earth waving to me, with a smile of recognition, from across the crowd of saints. I guess you could argue whether or not that might really happen, but this joyful picture (in conjunction with the Spirit interceding within me) keeps me encouraged in my prayers for others, especially those for whom my missionary friends have requested prayer.
12. Rachael said the following at 3:20 PM on Jun 26:
I don't intend this post to be negative-spirited.
Is there any verse in the Bible that is an example of prayer for one's salvation, and clearly 'salvation' (rather than growth or knowledge)?
I know we're supposed to pray, even though God knows what will happen.
And maybe if we pray for the unsaved to come to a saving knowledge that that would be part of the plan of God's salvation for that person.
To my knowledge, there isn't a blatant verse where people's salvation is prayed for...But if there is a verse, could someone show it?
Thanks...
13. Lisa Anderson said the following at 3:43 PM on Jun 26:
Rachael #12:
The first passage that came to mind for me was Jesus' prayer in John 17, specifically v. 20 and following.
14. Tom said the following at 3:43 PM on Jun 26:
Romans 10:1
15. BDB said the following at 4:02 PM on Jun 26:
I suppose we can pray for Madonna and Prince next.
Though I must say, I was kind of impressed that Madonna took the time to try and do a little mentoring for Britney and get her to get her act together again. Literally.
I once thought that Prince was in the same odd category as Mr. Jackson. However, that opinion changed during the Superbowl performance when it started raining. I thought that might require stopping to avoid any hazards from electrical equipment (like guitars.) But no, he just kept going, seemingly without being ruffled at all. Very professional.
But like Alice Cooper, it definitely is worth praying for those in positions of influence who might be converted to serving Christ. A ministry near me called Master Media International produces a prayer calendar to pray for a lot of people in entertainment.
Stephen Colbert even pointed out on his show when it was his day. Granted, he made fun of it a little. But it showed that he was aware people were praying specifically for him.
16. Rachael said the following at 4:16 PM on Jun 26:
Thanks...the end of John 17:21 says "so that the world may believe that you have sent me"...
This part of 20 seems undertandable to me: "for those who will believe in me"...so, He knows that they'll believe.
Romans 10:1 - thanks! That's pretty crystal clear!
But it's still confusing as God has already chosen the people. Like, can God choose people after the foundation of the world too? Maybe...though in Ephesians 1:4 it says: "even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world".
I guess, maybe even if God chose them before the foundation of the world, non-Christians' salvation could still be prayed for, and maybe is part of the plan...
Doesn't mean it'll cause God to choose to save someone, but maybe it will cause in the prayer-giver an awareness of God's hand in the other person's salvation. Maybe it'll hasten the day of their acceptance of the gift of salvation.
Maybe it's just somehow in the plan even if it's not clear to some of us...
17. Tami said the following at 4:18 PM on Jun 26:
1 Timothy 2:1-4:
"First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
18. BDB said the following at 4:48 PM on Jun 26:
Rachael (#16) wrote:
>>But it's still confusing as God has already chosen the people. Like, can God choose people after the foundation of the world too? Maybe...though in Ephesians 1:4 it says: "even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world".<<
That's why Calvin and Arminius disagreed on the extent of predestination and the precise mechanism of salvation. Both could cite scripture to back up their points.
19. Kelly said the following at 8:27 PM on Jun 26:
Thank you for this post, and giving us a place to express our thoughts.
When a celebrity dies, the world mourns as if he (or she) was their very own. And to me, that's such a frightening reflection of our culture, that we think we 'own' someone because we buy their music/watch their movies/worship them. I've seen blog posts elsewhere tinged with a sense of entitlement, "We deserve to know what happened!"
As for the man himself, I think it's a classic example of how our celebrity-obsessed culture ultimately brings doom. I have so much sympathy for him. I always have; throughout the media circuses, the trials, the ridiculous tabloid gossip. Even without seeking it out, I was aware of it.
No one knew his heart but God and we can't make judgements on his life. But I feel sad, for the mess that was his life-on-earth, for those he leaves behind, and I wish I HAD prayed for him.
20. Keith said the following at 9:37 PM on Jun 26:
I used to pray for Saddam Hussein. I wonder whether I will see him in heaven.
As for Micheal Jackson, he is a sad story of what happens to a boy who grew up with a bad father in his life. Despite his hard work and incredible talent, he could never escape the trauma of his childhood, and that is what is what lead to his his ultimate downfall. A good father can help a child overcome even the world's highest hurdles, but an emotionally bankrupt can rob him or her of the ability to not become overcome by even the slightest challenges.
21. Michelle said the following at 9:50 PM on Jun 26:
After interviewing many celebrities during my teen years, I continue to pray for several on a regular basis and pay special attention when I see them in the news.
Jonny Lang was one such musician that I prayed for for several years, and - HALLELUJAH! - Jonny came to know the Lord a few years ago!!
I pray too for those I know are Christians in the secular music world and for their influence of Christ with their musician peers.
22. Stephanie said the following at 10:55 PM on Jun 26:
Rachel (#16):
I believe the issue of God "choosing" people is much less cut-and-dry than that. It's a mystery that I don't think we will be able to understand.
In any case, even if you come from a more predestination-focused background, we should not see salvation as a locked door. For whatever reason, however it happens, God works in such a way that from our perspective it appears as though he acts in response to prayer, such as the case with Moses interceding for the Israelites. God even said to him, "Leave me alone so my anger can burn against them!" as if his anger could NOT burn against them as long as Moses was fasting and praying on their behalf! That story is in Deuteronomy 9. And then there is also the parable of the persistant widow in Luke 18. And Jesus' teaching about stone and fish in Luke 11.
Faith means that we believe not just that God will do SOMETHING when we pray, but he will do MORE than what we ask: not that it will be exactly what we asked for or that we will necessarily see the results, but there WILL be results because God is good and because it is the law he has laid down that you reap what you sow, and those who do not become weary in doing good WILL reap a harvest if they do not give up (Gal. 6:9). To me it seems incredibly silly to say that prayer only has a subjective benefit upon ourselves and not those we pray for; not only is this incredibly self-centered and selfish, it is illogical. What subjective benefit, Charles Finney once asked, can prayer have on me unless I believe in its objective benefits?
23. Jo said the following at 11:33 PM on Jun 26:
It surprised me how sad I was about Michael Jackson's death. I think when someone with such a high profile dies, it really shakes us. This "I can't believe it, how can he possibly be dead?" sentiment that I've been hearing everywhere and even feeling a little bit, is just an amplified version of what the very idea of death does to us. It makes us think, 'This can't be the way it's supposed to be, can it?' Because it's not! With all our faith in evolution and all the rest of it, STILL we can't get our heads around death. It's one thing that I think still really points us towards the truth that there's something wrong here somewhere.
I like this post, as well. I think it's very good to pray for people in the public eye. I think apart from anything else, it encourages us to have a righteous attitude towards them, in a society where most people think nothing of ridiculing and judging celebrities. Michael Jackson is a prime example of that, really. And now of course all those who tore him down are saying how awful it is that he's died. As Christians at least we can try to be consistent, to resist gossip, and pray instead.
24. Nate said the following at 12:14 AM on Jun 27:
Lisa,
Thanks for sharing your testimony of praying for MJ. I have found myself praying for "random" celebrities over the years, but not consistently as you have. At some point in my life I came to realize that it does no good to be informed about current events unless you are going to go to God in prayer concerning them. This helps me as I have a tendency to be a bit obsessive...if I pray about it, then I can hand it over to God.
I can remember praying for Paris Hilton when she was arrested. So many celebrities lives are just tragic. They obtain the fame, money, influence, and adulation of millions, but in reality are completely alone, besieged by people who want to capitalize on their fame to make money. The word that comes to mind is "used." It must be terrible living a life that is so empty, so devoid of true meaning. I think it is worse when the person is raised in that world as a child, as MJ was. It's almost like they are crippled emotionally from the start.
Recently, I have felt the Lord bringing me to the understanding that no prayer that we pray according to His will and in faith is wasted. And what could be more "in His will" than a person coming to a saving relationship with Jesus? I am convinced that if we pray for someone's salvation and they do not accept Jesus, the Lord somehow redeems that prayer and answers it in a way that we are not expecting. I think that if you pray for an ungoldly world leader, for instance, and that person refuses to accept the Lord, the Holy Spirit will seek out someone in their sphere of influence that is open and willing to accept Him. Or maybe a lot of someones. So, I'm sure the Lord heard and answered your prayers. How He did that, though, I'm sure will be quite the surprise on that Day.
PS. KR (3), thanks for the story about praying for Maryln Manson. The image of an elementary school kid praying for a "bad, scary man" brought tears to my eyes. I hope someday he will know how much he is loved by God.
25. Patrick said the following at 2:53 AM on Jun 27:
It has been reported that Michael Jackson recieved Christ 3 weeks ago, sure do hope it's true! Here is the link to the story: http://www.dasouth.com/news/24-news/1632-michael-jackson-received-jesus-three-weeks-ago
26. anna said the following at 6:26 AM on Jun 27:
Lisa, Thanks for your great email. I am in sydney and i had the honour of being in the front row of micheals sydney concert in sydney. I said to him that i loved him and he replied i love you back. I want to share something with you. The time that mj was delcared dead on the radio i was driving to work and i started crying. I couldnt stop for ten minutes. Than that night i was walking home in the dark and i was looking up at the night sky and thinking about how god is going to be judging mj anytime after his death now. You know what happened? I asked christ with tears to hold micheals hand and take his soul up to the kingdom of heaven. I got my answer. I saw the moon in its full glory with clouds in a straight line like a beautiful piece of artwork in the perfect night sky. It was like mjs spirit was spread across the world because so many people were crying and praying for his soul. I got my answer- micheal jackson had a lonely and sad spirit and christ didnt want him to suffer anymore on this earth. christ did save him..he told my heart that and i didnt cry after that- it was like our sweet lord was saying to my soul-"dont worry my sweet daughter-i know his heart-dont you worry-he will looked after-hes with me now -" and i know that christ had mercy on his soul because of micheals heart. if i make it to heaven i hope i can talk to micheal and thank him for his beautiful talent. but remember christ created him for a reason- to help glorify god- i love you christ and i thankyou for taking our micheal with you to the kindgom of god.
27. Mark said the following at 7:48 AM on Jun 27:
Have you seen this link concerning MJ's salvation in the last days of his life? Seems to be from a credible source, although I will try to do more Andre Crouch research to see if he mentions it.
28. Kelli Little said the following at 10:23 AM on Jun 27:
This was posted by Erica Campbell of the group Mary Mary:
Last night we received some good news from Terri McFaddin-Solomon who is good friends with Sandra Crouch. Three weeks ago Sandra and Andre' spent some time with their close friend, Michael Jackson. Michael asked Andre` to play, "It Won't Be Long And We'll Be Leaving Here." Michael then prayed with Sandra and Andre and accepted Christ into his heart. Now he's singing in the heavenly choir.! Our hearts rejoice!
29. Ashley said the following at 12:43 PM on Jun 27:
Yes, God is sovereign over salvation but He also sovereingly uses us to pray for and lead people to Christ. He commands us to pray about "everything" and "continually with thanksgiving" (Eph. 4:6, 1Thess. 5:16-18).
"He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world", and "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
-Eph. 1:4,James 5:16b
When we pray for others for salvation, we are praying for them to see Christ as He really is- God of all. I think our prayers for salvation for others may partially be part of "all creation groaning for the day of Christ," when He will reveal Himself to all men and every knee shall bow. They may not have been saved, but ultimately, I think our prayers will be answered in the sense that we are praying for Christ's glory to be revealed, and it will be, one day either to our glorification or judgement.
30. abenaa said the following at 6:17 PM on Jun 27:
http://ilovemarymary.blogspot.com/2009/06/good-news-rip-michael-jackson.html
According to the gospel artists Mary Mary, Micheal Jackson accepted Christ 3 weeks ago
31. Emily said the following at 8:05 PM on Jun 27:
Lisa, I am so thankful for you. After I heard the news I felt very convicted that I had NOT been praying for him. His looks always kind of scared me, and God has given me the courage to think more about him and look at more pictures of him in the past few days than I ever had before. I felt guilty that I had not prayed for him, but I am glad to be reminded that, though I should be obedient and available, God doesn't have to use me. He can use Lisa or my friends or someone else. This encourages me to be on the lookout for how God WILL use me, yet without being afraid of missing an opportunity.
32. Carol said the following at 9:41 PM on Jun 27:
Re: Rachel #16
"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16
We can't know who is and who isn't going to be saved, and of course God knows that. However, I think it is very clear in scripture (both old and new testaments) that when a Christian prays, God moves.
Going back and forth over whether it does anything because God already knows it is an exercise in futility. For "who hath known the mind of the Lord?" (Rom. 11:34) God commands us to pray and tells us that it will have an effect; therefore, we must pray and believe that it is effectual.
33. Devi said the following at 2:15 AM on Jun 29:
What an awesome and encouraging testimony - thanks so much for sharing that.
34. Louise from Chicago said the following at 8:22 AM on Jun 29:
The TV stations have been replaying Jackson's stage performances and I've been struck by the reminder of the immense musical and performance talent of Michael Jackson.
All the Jackson press since 2000 has focused on his unusual private life and appearance changes.
Such a gifted but tormented human being.
It's a shame.
35. Ruby said the following at 8:47 AM on Jun 29:
For the last couple of days I have agonized over his soul. My debate with God went like this how could you allow him to go to hell? When his father created this, I told God his Word says train up a child in a way he should go and when he is old he shall not depart from it. So God he had no spiritual or moral guide. I prayed earnestly that he may have had the chance to cry out to God in all his pain, and Lisa I believe God has answered your prayer and he is in God's arms. For the first time since I heard he died I cried today, it was tears of joy that he is in God's arms. I was interested in his soul than anything else and I believe God has made my heart a little less heavy. Lisa God Heard and Honour your prayer. Ruby from Barbados
36. Vincenzo said the following at 10:06 AM on Jun 29:
Well, I know that many famous people have been getting saved over the years. Professional wrestlers, for example, I know Sting got saved because of the prayers of his brother, Ted "Million Dollar Man" DiBiase is a minister now who reaches out to many in the business, Nikita Koloff, Lex Luger got saved not too long ago, Zeus (aka Tiny Lister), Shawn Michaels and others. The actress Vanity got saved after a life of drugs and self-destructive behavior.
37. Kristina said the following at 4:34 PM on Jun 29:
Last August I heard Lee speaking on the 1:1:1 challenge on Focus and I was inspired to start it. I've been praying for three people EVERY day for almost a year now and let me tell you it has been such a blessing for ME! I have yet to see these three people come to the Lord, but I'm seeing a lot of progress and the Lord has used it to show me that He IS listening.
Maybe I'll add a fourth and fifth person to my list... Angelina and Brad perhaps?
38. Tami said the following at 5:22 PM on Jun 29:
Louise (34) -- Indeed.
I see people on other sites asking, "Why are we mourning this guy?"
Either they did not know, experience, or remember, he was a very, very talented man, whose performances brought happiness to a lot of people. Watching his older videos (which were on rotation all weekend, hard to miss), I was reminded of being a little kid, when anything seemed possible. I think *that* is what so many people are mourning... the loss of that happiness and youthfulness, and a sense of being part of something huge. Or maybe even silly memories of trying to figure out the moonwalk in the living room, or dancing to "Beat It" at a school dance.
In his later years, Jackson's strangeness overshadowed his talent, which really *is* a shame. For myself, I lost interest in his music after Thriller, but if that was part of your youth (as it was mine), it's pretty hard to forget that.
39. Cassandra said the following at 5:35 PM on Jun 29:
Angelina and Brad perhaps?
What a witness that would be!!
Back to MJ, a couple of comments were skeptical of Mary Mary's blog, but I hope it was right!
40. *Paceey* said the following at 6:23 PM on Jun 29:
I prayed for Nicole Richie last year... and also for Britney Spears. I feel inspired by all the people who have mentioned praying for the same people for several years. I hope I can do that starting this week.
I was asked by atheists and former Catholics at my work place about why God would allow people who do not know him but live "good lives" to still go to hell. I really didn't have an answer and I confess that that is one of the things I find hard to fully accept. If anyone knows of a good way to explain why "being good" just isn't sufficient to get you into heaven, please let me know. I know that it is because you need a personal relationship with Jesus but I need an explanation that will make sense to atheists.
Thank you!
41. fififj said the following at 7:30 PM on Jun 29:
That so ministered to me. I have been so sad today for some reason about MJ especially when I saw a commercial he made with him playing at a piano and him as a small boy in the background. I just started crying really bad. Reading your post let me know that God loves him too that he pressed on your heart to pray for him. Hallelujah!! I felt so bad because I feel its harder when you are raised in a false religion. I was telling my daughter we dont know and Jesus could have been dealing with him and he could have accepted Christ and could be singing in heaven. I was just praying that God would raise him from the dead so he could testify about heaven or hell which would let people know there is a God and the bible is real. I just wish and was hoping he wasnt embalmed yet and looking up how long Lazarus was dead to see if it was beyond the usual time, but nothing is impossible for God. Thank you for your testimony because it consoles me that God knew what was going to happen to Michael and provided someone to pray for his salvation. God is love for all even Michael Jackson!! Hallelujah
42. Tami said the following at 9:56 PM on Jun 29:
Vincenzo (36) -- you mentioned Vanity... Another one of Prince's "proteges"/musical partners, Sheila E., has also come to the Lord.
43. Jo said the following at 12:24 AM on Jun 30:
Louise, #34 - amen to that.
Honestly, if almost any other musician had died, I'm sure I would be utterly bored of hearing their music everywhere by now. But not MJ - I haven't listened to him for a while, but am loving hearing it so much at the moment, even though it is under such sad circumstances.
44. Kristina said the following at 11:40 AM on Jun 30:
"Paceey," despite how good we try to be, we have all sinned by breaking the Lord's commandments. The Bible says that the penalty for sin is death. Without Jesus to reconcile us from that sin, we are lost... no matter how "good" we try to be.
45. Frank Shelton said the following at 3:43 PM on Jun 30:
Thanks for this great post. I also had a burden for years for MJ. You can read my post here. God bless you and praise God for His amazing grace.
In Christ,
frank
http://blog.frankshelton.com/
46. Vincenzo said the following at 2:42 PM on Jul 1:
Tami(42) you said "Another one of Prince's "proteges"/musical partners, Sheila E., has also come to the Lord."
That's right I forgot about Sheila E. Now that you mention it MC Hammer got saved too. Also, I read somewhere that actor Jay Robinson got saved about 30 years ago. He played Caligula in The Robe with Richard Burton.
47. Leah said the following at 10:54 PM on Jul 1:
Rachael (16) - we could use that justification - "But God already knows" - as reason not to pray about anything.
No human will ever completely understand God's sovereignty. But we do know God listens to our prayers. Whether he changes his will in accordance with them - or simply has set his will ahead of time, knowing in advance what people will pray for - I don't think we'll ever completely understand.
Vincenzo - did MC Hammer get saved too? I didn't know that (I am just a tad young to be up with the goss on MC Hammer). Although, my facebook profile contains a quote of his that he posted on Twitter a few months ago. "Resting In Peace is not an option unless Peace is found in life and then rested upon in death."
Paceey (40) - there is an answer, but I suspect it will not satisfy your colleagues. Firstly, you must remember that the gospel is offensive to those who do not believe. Paul affirms that in the bible.
But the reason is that God does not judge us based on "goodness". Why? Because nothing we do is good enough for him. God requires perfection. And none of us are perfect. Our best deeds are as dirty rags to God. (Isaiah 64:5). We cannot attain the level of perfection required by him. We were all condemned.
On our human scale, murder is significantly worse than lying or cheating. On God's scale, he sees both actions as a rejection of him, our creator. And that's what matters to him.
But he gave us a way out. Trust in the only perfect man to walk the earth to be our replacement - Jesus. Trust in Jesus to be our replacement. Instead of looking at our lives when he judges us, God will look upon Jesus' perfect life. We just have to take that opportunity.
Yes, God will still reward people who lived exceptionally better lives than others. The bible affirms that, too. God has special rewards in heaven for those who lived 'better' lives than others. But to get to heaven in the first place, you have to trust in Jesus.
Most non-Christians won't like that. That's because they're humans and judge people's actions against a human scale. I guess I can't really blame them. All you can do is answer them as best you can and pray that God will do the rest.
To everyone who posted that page on MaryMary's blog, it has been removed. I suspect it is not true. Rumours came out shortly after Steve Irwin's death, claiming he'd been saved in the weeks before his death. They are unsubstantiated, at best - false, at worst. Every time investigators think they've gotten to the original soure, that person "heard it from someone else", who heard it from another person, who heard it from another person... etc. I've resigned myself to the fact that both rumours are probably wishful thinking - but who knows, they could be true.
48. Rose said the following at 10:58 PM on Jul 1:
I'm so touched and blessed by what you wrote about praying for Michael's salvation. I'm crying with tears of joy in my heart because, I feel a quiet assurance from the Holy Spirit that Michael, indeed, received the Lord's gift of salvation and eternal life..Very interestingly, there's a video of him on You Tube about how he might've wanted to be buried..his answer was, "I don't want to be buried..I want to live forever.." Yes, indeed, he is going to live forever in Christ, because he's accepted the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ! Amen!
49. Paxton said the following at 7:28 AM on Jul 2:
Here's a blog about why the author does NOT pray for celebrities. I thought it was interesting =)
http://www.scriptoriumdaily.com/2009/07/02/why-i-dont-pray-for-celebrities/
50. Lisa said the following at 2:54 PM on Jul 7:
"The King of Pop will be called to give an account to the King of Kings."
In his closing prayer at today's tribute service to Michael, Pastor Lucius Smith said something very similar- about how the King of Pop would now have to bend his knee to the King of Kings.
I think you had some pseudo-prophetic words, there, Lisa!
I'll admit that I was quite surprised by the very overt spiritual overtones to the memorial service today.
51. Jeremy said the following at 4:52 PM on Jul 7:
Rose (#48):
I would be very careful about making statements like that. There was no indication that I am aware of in Michael Jackson's life that he believed. Personally I would be awfully nervous to claim divinely imparted knowledge because of a vague feeling.
52. Tami said the following at 5:42 PM on Jul 7:
I didn't watch the whole thing, but I too was surprised by the spiritual overtones of the memorial -- I thought it was going to be more of a "tribute to Michael" type event.
I tuned in (online) just in time to hear "Soon and Very Soon," and heard Lionel Richie sing "Jesus is Love." Hopefully these will spark some chords of thoughtfulness in people -- as, honestly, they did in me.
And the whole event seemed appropriately somber and reflective. In contrast to the craziness of the media coverage, I thought it was very respectful and well done.
53. Patricia said the following at 8:05 PM on Jul 7:
It deeply breaks my heart. Here's an article that says MJ was saved 3 weeks before he left us. if this is true, then my heart is at peace that the king of pop is in Heaven with King of Kings Who must be very proud of him. We will all meet when we get to heaven someday. see the link below.
______________________________________
The article reads as follows;
Great news! Michael Jackson, "The King of Pop," accepted the "King of Kings" into his life three weeks ago. Here is a Facebook status that Erica and Tina of Mary Mary made today about 4 hours ago.
"Last night we received some good news from Terri McFaddin-Solomon who is good friends with Sandra Crouch. Three weeks ago Sandra and Andre' spent some time with their close friend, Michael Jackson. Michael asked Andre` to play, "It Won't Be Long And We'll Be Leaving Here." Michael then prayed with Sandra and Andre and accepted Christ into his heart. Now he's singing in the heavenly choir.! Our hearts rejoice!"
The Lord knows what he's doing! PRAISE GOD!!!
http://www.dasouth.com/news/24-news/1632-michael-jackson-received-jesus-three-weeks-ago
54. Taf said the following at 10:30 PM on Jul 7:
I have to agree with 51. Jeremy.
Also, like someone said, I'm surprised at the sadness I've felt at the death of MJ. I watched his later music videos as a kid (I'm 21 now). I don't like how media goes out to make it seem like everyone who dies is in heaven. I'm humbled by this, and encouraged to cling all the more to Jesus our Savior. I really like the 1:1:1. Thanks for sharing your testimony
55. Rachael said the following at 7:29 AM on Jul 8:
Thanks everyone. I need to leave soon and also don't feel like getting into a long conversation on here.
I realize I need to pray more. There's stuff we won't understand. There's evidence in the Bible of prayer yielding or playing a part in the results. I'm thinking there may have even been a place in the Bible where a prayer was predicted, but I could be wrong so please don't quote me unless you find it.
I'm glad someone sometime back mentioned the verse in Romans.
Maybe it's possible for some people to be chosen after the foundation of the world. And if not maybe it's still part of the plan for people's prayer to play a role in Christ's drawing people to himself.
As for my church experience, I have gone to a variety of churches.
I believe the Bible and desire to believe the Bible in the way it should be interpreted, but no one will ever understand everything.
But it's good that we can understand 'enough'.
As for prayer having subjective vs. objective benefits. I think there can be objective results. But if God chooses not to answer them that's totally up to Him and the prayer might bring the person closer to Him and that might bring Him glory? Is that selfish? Maybe it can be. But the person may never know of the benefit. Even if the person prays and never gets the results he or she wants. So I don't think it's always selfish. Sure it may be good for the pray-er to pray, even if the results aren't granted. The pray-er may never see the benefits though.
Paul used language like 'struggling in prayers' or something, somewhere in the Bible.
Sorry no time or desire to create anything eloquent. Just random stray thought-replies.
Thanks all...
56. Nadine said the following at 9:50 AM on Jul 12:
Lisa,
I was comforted to know that you and others felt a burden or need to pray for Michael and other souls in Hollywood. Man looks on the outward appearance but God looks on the heart. I pray that he surrendered his life to the Lord. I myself returned to the Lord in the privacy of my room while reading a Divine Revelation of Hell, the Lord convicted me and I dropped on my knees and cried out to him asking him into my heart and to save me and I did not keep it a secret, I told everyone.
I loved MJ, I cried out for him and celebrities and people around me. God is truly bringing an awakening that he is coming back, we are to seek his face and cry out for others. With Michael, it made me to think how can people see him suffering and not do a thing. Or for the Christians who knew him to not seek what the Lord wanted to do and to recognise the timing of events. Whitney Houston's mom called out for a prayer intervention for Whitney,the rumor was that she died after MJ's concert in Madison Square Garden. Now here comeback is this year and MJ died. We have to look behind the scenes. It all makes me want to be closer to God, have more spiritual discernment, pray for a revival of a burden for souls. The week before MJ died, I was discussing with others how my own mother died suddenly in London. I was 12. As I look back I see so many signs about this. I heard his song about two days before, I started to pray again, in the store where I heard it. I am sensing the Lord showing us, that we need to do more prayer and witnessing so that souls can be saved and when we pray, believe by faith, not by sight. We have become too complacent and lack conviction. Frank Shelton's web site was very inspiring, thanks for posting that Frank. I am resolving to leave this in God's hands. MJ had a lot of works and I heard him say, he wanted to pattern his life after Jesus, then the reports about Islam and JW background. Sadly, some Christians lives are as questionable. We should make it plain to all we are on the Lord's side and make no apologies for it. God bless all the readers and the author of this site. God is stiring us up again.