DEAD SPACE |02/09/2025| Rev. Elation's Sunday Service

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, let us ponder a scenario familiar to many in our modern world, one where the art of game development intersects with the harsh realities of corporate greed. Imagine a video game developer, beloved by its fanbase for creating worlds of wonder, adventure, and escape. Now, envision this developer being swayed by the allure of large shareholder companies, trading the loyalty and love of their community for a handful of silver coins, much like Judas betrayed Jesus.

First, the Betrayal:

Selling Out for Profit: Just as Judas was tempted by thirty pieces of silver to betray Jesus, so too are developers sometimes tempted by lucrative deals from big corporations. These deals promise financial security but often at the cost of artistic integrity and community trust. "What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36). When developers sell out, they risk losing not just their fanbase but their very essence, their soul.

Abandoning the Faithful: Judas' betrayal was not just of Jesus but of all who followed Him. Similarly, when developers shift their focus from creating for the love of the game to appeasing shareholders, they abandon those who have been their most loyal supporters. "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!" (Jeremiah 23:1). The developers become shepherds who scatter their flock for personal gain.

Second, the Consequences:

Loss of Trust: Judas' betrayal led to a profound loss of trust among the disciples. In parallel, when a developer shifts allegiance from fans to shareholders, trust erodes. The community feels betrayed, leading to disillusionment and sometimes the downfall of what was once a beloved entity. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). When trust is broken, it is hard to rebuild.

Public Image Tarnished: Just as Judas' name became synonymous with betrayal, a developer's reputation can be irrevocably damaged. The public remembers not the games but the betrayal. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches" (Proverbs 22:1). The pursuit of wealth can tarnish a legacy that was once built on passion and creativity.

Lastly, the Redemption:

The Path to Redemption: While Judas' story ends in tragedy, there is always a path to redemption for those who seek it. Developers can return to their roots, rekindle their passion for creation over profit, and seek forgiveness from their community. "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out" (Acts 3:19). Redemption lies in acknowledging mistakes and striving to make amends.

Remembering the Greater Good: Just as Jesus’ sacrifice was for the greater good of humanity, developers must remember that their true calling is to enrich lives through their art, not merely to fill coffers. "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). Serving the community brings not just success but fulfillment.

Let us reflect on the choices we make, whether in business, personal life, or creativity. May we choose integrity over silver, remembering that our true value lies not in what we can gain but in what we give. May we strive to maintain our integrity, even when tempted by the world's fleeting treasures, and may we always seek to serve rather than to be served.

May God guide us in our decisions and may we find peace in knowing that true success is measured by the hearts we touch, not the wealth we accumulate. Amen.