Amazon Reviews and Jesus

Who do you trust?

Who do you believe?

Not, who do you believe in—but who do you believe? For many of us, we believe strangers. 

It’s no secret that Amazon is doing major business. During our pandemic ridden year of 2020—Amazon had their most successful year in their short, illustrious existence. With millions and millions of products on their site, it is often the first (and last) place people go when looking for the latest electronic gizmo; an instapot; or a blanket that looks like a burrito wrap. And, no mater what item you are looking for, chances are that part of your buying experience will include reading the reviews. 

Reading the reviews is an essential element of the Amazon experience. As a society we continue to wrestle with our collective trust in corporations and big budget advertisements. These conglomerates are great at making us aware of products and services—but, until I read the review of the Theracane Back Massager (among the highest rated items in all of amazon) I was not sold. It was when I read the various reviews of strangers that I was convinced that, indeed, this strange looking device would provide the relief it advertised. I never would have bought the thing without those reviews. The reason is simple—we trust the stories of people. The word of one person does more to move the needle than high advertisement budgets.

So, what’s your review of Jesus? 

I’m not asking for your 5 star rating here. I’m asking you to do some solid self reflecting and share a review of how Jesus has changed the way you live. Put some thoughts to the way that Jesus has shown up in your life and how He has brought peace, hope, and joy to your days. Tell your story–but do it in such a way that other folks might be intrigued enough to try Jesus on in their own life. This is what it means to be a witness. Here are some questions to help get you thinking:

• How has Jesus brought a deeper level of meaning to your daily life?
• In what ways has Jesus given you hope?
• When was a time he redeemed a moment and offered a new lease on life?
• How has Jesus altered your perspective and brought you to the altar?
• What is your story about how Jesus has taken out the trash and cleaned up your mental mind to realize that you are worthy of love and respect?
• In what was has Jesus opened your eyes to see others with a greater level of compassion and put a pep in your step to go and change someones day by infusing it with your voice on their behalf?

Jesus doesn’t need your endorsement. He is going to continue to do His thing with or without us. And, the Father’s plans being accomplished—they don’t depend upon you and me—we are not that important. The review isn’t for Jesus. It is for the other shoppers that are looking for a deeper meaning and purpose for their lives. Your review is to help others find salvation. It helps others learn that they are worthy of love; they are not too far gone; and their history does not preclude them from inclusion in God’s story. Your review is your witness. 

Our calling as disciples of Jesus entails being able to tell the story of what God has done for you. It is a retelling of each of our own salvation histories. This is what it means to be a witness. Do you want to go deeper as a disciple today? Do some reflecting on the ways in which God has rescued, redeemed, and walked with you. Write it down. What are some key Bible verses that speak to your story. Make this your Amazon review.

Finally, be ready to share your review. Don’t keep it hidden in a journal somewhere. Find ways to tell your story. Share about the difference that Jesus has made in you. Your review may be the nudge that someone needs to explore Jesus themselves. And wouldn’t that be a wonderful thing!