BASKING

Did you ever wonder why people like to have their picture taken with a sports figure or someone successful in whatever field they were interested in?

I concluded that is a way to share the glory that the successful one has.

It becomes an “Us” thing instead of a “Him” thing. Having established this relationship it is expected that you enlarge upon on it in some manner for the allusion thus created will soon fade and become meaningless.

There are so many variations of this where people share others successes by association in some fashion even if it is only quoting them. Simple things like quoting Yogi Berra’s, “It ain’t over until it’s over.” Yogism gives the person some additional creditability.

Another example or variation of this was when a singer used the name of two top stars in the song “Key Largo.” It made him an instant hit but that was his career highlight, take Bogart and Bacall away and the song loses most of its appeal. Using Ma and Pa Kettle wouldn't work. For the rest of his life he has been without another hit like that.

The examples of these actions are multitudinous but one more will get to the point.

When we declare ourselves to be a Christian we take on the glory of Jesus Christ and assume obedience to all he preached as a requirement, otherwise you are only a pretender trying to profit from his example in some way. To love and obey are the two evidences to validate one’s profession to be a Christian.

John 14:24 Anyone who doesn't love me will not obey me. Or you could say if you love him you will obey him. Obedience is the true love test.

John 14:15 If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

That almost makes you want to say “ouch,” and thank GOD for grace and mercy. So what is the conclusion of the whole matter?  Do not be a be-smircher. 
Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0S8Z-dMM40&feature=related