Only in advertising do things magically grow overnight. For instance, the Chia Pet. For the two of you out there not familiar with this breed, the chia is a species that's half animal, half plant, and usually hibernates till Christmas time. When cared for correctly, the chia figurine sprouts fuzzy growth that looks like chia fur. In the commercial, someone rubs a seed paste all over the chia and within thirty seconds, a chia coat appears.

But in reality, it's different. The amazing growth you see on TV doesn't happen at home. You wait, wait, and wait, and still, your chia pet looks like it has chia mange. And if by chance it did grow, by next Christmas, your chia would need a chia Rogaine.

Then, there's the larger than life growth experienced in Valley of the Jolly Green Giant. You know the guy. He's rather large, not the best dresser, reminds you of Brussels sprouts. You have no idea where this Giant's valley is yet alone what he uses for fertilizer. Still, the Jolly Green Giant and his crop impress you. So you buy his frozen corn nibblets and boil them in the bag for five minutes. The perfect side dish for the domestically challenged (including myself).

Yes, advertising has a bit warped view of overnight wonders. Time lapsed photography of chia fuzz. Effortless farming of a jovial green giant. Ironically, advertisers know not to expect overnight results when trying to convince you of anything. Which frosting is creamier, what spaghetti sauce is chunkier. even what deodorant stick to pick. Advertisers know it can take several Christmas seasons of seeing that chia before you actually buy one.

Give me millions of dollars for media time, the latest in special effects, a bite and smile from Michael Jordan, and a complete breakfast and I still can't get you to try Wheaties before the coupon expires. Yet when it comes to sharing Christianity, I like anyone else expect Jack and the Beanstalk results.

The funny thing is, making the decision to become a Christian is a big one. It's more important than a chia, wheat flakes, or anything else you'd see advertised on TV. So instead of expecting automatic conversion, let's allow non-believing friends time to think about this important decision.

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