Social Miracle

We live in a marvelous time. We communicate and connect with others through various technologies that our grandparents would never have dreamed of. In some ways, it's made life easier, but in other ways, it's left many feeling disconnected and out of touch. The ability to see others in your phone's apps may keep you connected on the surface but can leave you without deeper, more helpful relationships. Which is why so many people are bemoaning technology, especially social media such as Facebook and Twitter.


If you are a member of a local church you've probably noticed a decline in weekly attendance and group activities. It has left many feeling disconnected from the body and the leadership scrambling to figure out what is going on and how to address it. Some have concluded that we must go back; we must force everyone to return to the methods of yesterday, but that ship has sailed. The world has changed, people have changed, and it's our job to function as the church in the most effective way for this current generation. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating leaving any biblical mandate behind. I'm saying we have an incredible opportunity staring us right in the face. What if God gave us cell phones, texting, emails, facebook, twitter and other communication methods to help us? What if, instead of complaining about technology, we used it to stay connected? What if we used it to help others? What if it's a SOCIAL MIRACLE?

I know there are bad things that can happen online. That's the way tools work. I can use a hammer to build a house or hit you in the head. The hammer isn't good or evil. The person using it is. Your phone is a tool that you can use to lift others up or tear them down. You can use Facebook to judge others or pray for others. The choice is ours, but the mandate comes from God.

...and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. - Hebrews 10:24, 25

Here are some ways that you can help others and stay connected using modern methods:

1. When viewing social media such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, look for people who need prayer, stop where you are and pray for them. You even have a picture of them to help you visualize as you pray.

2.  Use social media to speak life and hope to others. You never know what people are going through but God does. He often uses people to post something encouraging to help others. Just be sure to pray before you post.

3. Call text or message someone who has been distant or missing from the fellowship at church and encourage them. Be prepared to get involved in their lives as God directs you.

4. If you can't make it to worship service catch the livestream later on youtube or your church's website.

5. You can also give online. You can tithe, give offerings, and even donate to charitable causes right where you are.

I believe the church will always need in-person fellowship and community, but that doesn't mean we can't help each other and stay connected through modern means. So, let's show up when it'time to gather in person for worship, fellowship or service. And when we can't get together in person, let's make the most of technology to spur each other on to love and good deeds.

Pastor Mylon Avery