In the mid 1980’s, Coca-Cola released a product called the New Coke. This was a reformulation of their iconic drink. Coca-Cola didn’t expect such a strong backlash from the public. Most people disliked the new product, and sales drastically dropped. It was deemed as one of the worst marketing events in history. Coca-Cola took notice of the public’s response and brought back the original formula under the new name Coca-Cola Classic. Sales instantly increased and the company seemed to gain favor once again with their customers. The failed campaign proved one thing: there is no replacement for the real thing. As a matter of fact, the recalled product embraced an old song from the 1970’s, “Ain’t nothing like the real thing, baby.” Too often we try to substitute the power and the presence of God with superficial things. Religion, good works, emotional experiences may all seem similar to God’s presence, but they will never sustain or satisfy a true child of God. Once you have experienced His glory, nothing else will do. We should refuse to accept anything less. It is time we rid our lives with the “new” products of spirituality and get back to the “classic” formula – we need the real thing!
