We live in an age of almost instant distribution of information world-wide. Our problems are not lack of, but an overload of news and thoughts.
This is both good and bad news. Connectivity can promote innovation and distribute knowledge, but it can also lead to obsession, even addiction, and a decrease in face-to-face conversational skills.
Churches are making increased use of social media to connect congregants and tell the story of the Good News. On the other side, social media has given deviates almost unlimited access to victims.
The speed of the dissemination of information accelerates the pace of our lives. We are becoming obsessed with a need for speed. Methodist Bishop Robert Hays says we are in a rush to go nowhere. He says, “Slow down! When you take your foot off the pedal, you will see, hear, smell and taste the life God has in store for you.”
We need to do more things face-to-face. Can we imagine Jesus delivering the Sermon on the Mount, or Paul taking his message to the Athenians about the unknown god, using tweets? We risk depersonalizing our call to “spread the Good News of Christ” when we substitute social media for direct, personal contact.
History is full of examples of how new innovations have positive and negative uses. Gunpowder, atomic fusion, and today instant messaging, present us with benefits and perils.
God, give us the wisdom to make good choices in the use of new technology.