It was so compelling!

Let’s just say that driving through Oklahoma isn’t like driving through Yosemite Valley or winding through the high country of Colorado. It’s pleasant enough … but predictable enough that you’re tempted to begin counting telephone poles! One ten mile stretch is remarkably like the last ten mile section.

So the billboards become welcome friends.

We were about fifty miles from a Dairy Queen whose sign caught my attention. The picture of a Blizzard shake piqued my interest. Less than a mile later they were tempting me with a visually amazing burger and fries. But it didn’t end with an invitation to stop and eat.

For the next 45 miles they offered everything from moccasins to sweatshirts … from Indian artifacts to retro candies from the 50’s. They oozed enticements from more than 100 billboards. My mouth was watering; my cravings were challenged. I couldn’t wait to get to this behemoth dispenser of all things good. This must be the ‘top dog’ DQ of the entire chain.

As I got close to the exit I scanned the horizon for the buzz of activity I knew must swirl around this giant retailer who had so captivated my attention and drew me like a moth to a flame.

I almost missed it entirely.

The familiar red logo was attached to the top of what looked like a double-wide mobile home that sat forlornly in the middle of an almost empty parking lot! I had been suckered.  All hype and hope but very little of what was expected.

Isn’t that like much of life? Big promises and little fulfillment. This next movie will be the best you’ve ever seen. This ride will be the most ferocious and heart-pounding you’ve experienced. This new cookware will make a world-class chef out of you. You’ll never want another car after you purchase this one.

And so if we’re not careful we spend our lives disappointed that there’s more air than substance to what we reach for. God spoke through Isaiah the prophet about this unfulfilled quest when He asked some pointed questions:

“Why spend your money on food that doesn’t give you strength? Why pay for groceries that do you no good? Listen and I’ll tell you where to get good food that fattens up the soul! Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, for the life of your soul is at stake.” Isaiah 55:2,3 Living Bible

This week shun the hype and go for the good stuff. Pursue that which satisfies the soul, not just the surface. A roller coaster may bring temporary excitement into your life … a great meal can satisfy until you’re hungry again … a new car will eventually begin to smell like your old car. But a God-satisfied heart stays satisfied.

“You make known to me the path of life;  you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11 NIV