Commercialism, Greed and Sushi

Las Vegas. Land of enchantment, enticement and entertainment. City of sin, seduction and secrets. From 'round the globe people of all backgrounds, cultures and races flock here to satiate their desires for feasting, pleasure and a chance at striking it rich. Yet as diverse as its visitors may be, they all share one, fallen nature.

I flew out here Wednesday for a short work trip; Las Vegas (Lost Wages) is never a place I look forward to visiting. Everywhere you look there is something scandalous or sensual thrown in your face. You can't even get into a taxi cab without the seductively smooth voice of the world whispering in your ear via per-recorded advertisements and images.

Perhaps I find this place so offensive because it reminds me of how weak I am, and forces me to stand firm in the strength of God's power. Because it literally bombards people with the things they have struggled with and battled against most. Because like the boisterous woman of Proverbs 5-7 it calls out to the foolish in the streets, and like the great City of Revelation 18 it is famous for selling even the "bodies and souls of men" for gain.

Yet...

Though this is my general take on Las Vegas from a mile high, always once I arrive, "zoom in" and deal with the everyday business of life in this unique city a different portrait begins to fill the canvas. There are details and colors not visible from above.

The people I work with here are terrific. I enjoy spending time with them, talking with and getting to know them. I've heard some of their stories, received their hospitality and have been blessed by their generosity. They are people, just like any other people, and no better or worse for the city in which they live and work and make their lives. Some of them have moved here not for lust or pleasure, but for work, cost of living, or simply were born here and have known nothing else.

Others though have indeed moved out here to "stock the forbidden fruit in their pantries", and are not ashamed but rather glory in the possibilities and potentials of their city's freedoms (Romans 1). Yet perhaps these latter people are more honest than some others. They readily acknowledge their desires and do not hide them behind closed doors. They do not publicly condemn and then secretly practice. Not that such an honesty makes them any less guilty or deserving of judgment in the end, but it is to say to myself that I should not be so quick to condemn based on outward appearances.

Tomorrow is my last day here and will be spent primarily at the airport. And despite the typical grief of heart Las Vegas brings me, I can say I have enjoyed my quick visit because of the love I have been able to show to the people here for Christ's sake. I am sad for my myopic attitude at the beginning of my trip, one that focused on me and not others, but glad that God saw fit to open my understanding and give me a love for lost people, not only here but everywhere.

And for the sake of my title, I will mention that I also enjoyed some good sushi. ;o)