TREKKIES FOR THE LORD
Here's a trivia question for you. What group of fans are the only group to have their name listed in Webster's Dictionary? Give up? The answer is: Trekkies. Hum, sounds like a good question for "So You Want To Be A Millionaire?", doesn't it?
I, myself, wouldn't have known that answer to this question if it weren't for the fact that Friday was my day off. We were in the midst of a blizzard and the documentary "Trekkies" was on Pay TV. Put all these elements together and you have me walking on the wild side of human behavior as I went where no man should have ever gone before! Actually, I found the movie both "fascinating" and "curious" (thanks, Spock).
In the midst of arguments over who was the best — Captain Kirk, Picard, or Janeway; and amidst the vast hoards of information on Star Trek memorabilia and collectibles, I witnessed some pretty compelling human interest stories.
Now, before I go any further, I want you to know that I began watching Star Trek as a kid when the original series aired in the sixties, then during my high school years in the seventies, I rushed home after school to make sure I caught the show in syndication every afternoon at 4:00 pm. Since then, I've enjoyed both Next Generation and Voyager, not to mention the movies. Still, I wouldn't call myself a Trekkie, especially now that I've seen the movie. I just don't have the knowledge, commitment or investment in the Star Trek phenomenon that true blue Trekkies do.
Throughout the movie, I was witness to some very interesting people. While they seemed normal in all other respects, they were perhaps a bit overwhelming in their Trekking. For example, one guy had his name legally changed to "James T. Kirk" another was seriously considering having his ears surgically altered to look like Spock. Many had spent years and thousands of dollars collecting everything relating to Star Trek. Most had traveled to several conventions. Then there were those who were part of local Starship crews (clubs). They regularly venture out in public wearing their Federation, or Klingon uniforms. One woman wears part of her uniform to work everyday and is known both to fellow staff and customers alike, simply as "Commander".
I know what you're thinking. "People, get a life and while you're at it, write yourself a reality check". Well, I'm not going to go there. To be honest, I'd much rather explore the many things that were both appealing, and compelling.
First, as these people all come together at the various conventions, there is a great sense of acceptance and fellowship. It doesn't matter how big or small your waist size is, or what color your skin may be, even if it were blue or green! Regardless, there is an immediate identification and connection between those in attendance.
Second, most of these people have spent a great amount of time, energy and resources to be a Trekkie. In other words, all of them display a serious commitment. Their commitment is such that it causes them to forgo other luxuries and interests in their pursuit of the being the best Trekkie they can possibly be.
Third, these people weren't afraid to wear their uniform in public, even though it meant some sideways glances and a few sneers and snickers. To them, it was an honor to wear the uniform. No one was going to distract them from standing proud for the Federation!
Fourth, there is a great sense of satisfaction, joy, and fulfillment that comes from their interest in Star Trek. Now, we can argue how wise it is to place all your hopes and dreams in what really amounts to a philosophy built around a television show, but the point I am trying to make is that these people are truly getting some valuable payback from their dedication and focus.
I bet you already know where I'm going with this. That's ok, this way I don't have to spell everything out. But, just in case you need a few hints about where I would take your thinking, let me ask you a few questions. Why aren't most Christians as committed to Christ as Trekkies are committed to Trek? Why aren't we as bold in wearing our Kingdom uniform? Why aren't we making sacrifices with our time and resources in out of our devotion to the Lord? I could keep going, but you get the point. One quote stuck with me from the movie that I must share with you. One man said: "We're always recruiting. Where ever we go, whatever we do, we're trying to sign people up." Ah, if only . . .
Here's one last thing to think about. Why do Trekkies get so much joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment from their fascination with Star Trek? After all, this is a television series. No one ever envisioned it becoming the catalysis for an entire sub-culture. What about it makes it work? I think the answer is quite simple. It works, because of the single-minded focus of these people. Put enough effort and passion into anything and you'll get a sense of satisfaction. I wonder if our lack of joy, satisfaction, and growth within the Church is directly a result of a lack of focus and singlemindedness toward our Lord?
I don't know about you, but I feel like polishing up my uniform and clipping on my communicator. I think it's time that people started seeing us as overwhelmingly dedicated to the Lord. May we all attract a few sideways glances and even a few snickers and sneers as we clearly wear our uniform of faith for all to see. Live long and prosper in the ways of the Lord! Amen.
If you have any thoughts or comments, I would love to hear from you, just click on my name at the bottom of this page and email me!
