I recall several years ago trying to convince my late mother to use Skype so that we could see each other when we talk instead of just hearing our voices on the phone. Well, that conversation didn’t go very far. My mother made it clear that computers and other technology were not for her generation and she was perfectly happy with the technology of her time.
I can just imagine what she would have said if I had suggested that she use a smart phone to scan a QR code (Quick Response Code). Across the generations, there is a difference of opinion on what is the best way to communicate. Some have sentiments similar to those my mother expressed, others are embracing the technology as it becomes available, and then there are those who are slower in making the transition but, eventually, they get there.
Society has progressed a long way from black and white televisions, rotary phones, and manual typewriters. Today, many devices are available that we can use to extend our personal witness and enable us to tell the story that “Jesus loves you” to a wider audience.
The opportunity we have been given must not be taken lightly. We should make every effort to use the tools at our disposal to reach others who are searching for a Savior. The upcoming meetings in New York City in 2013 are a prime example of an event that we should share around the world. Tools already in place that can be used to spread the word include a Web site: www.ny13.org, a social media site: www.facebook.com/NY13.org, the Gleaner magazine, and the Atlantic Union Gleaner FYI electronic newsletter, to name just a few. Postcards with information about NY13 will be distributed at camp meeting sites this year.
The beauty of all these available means of communication is the ability to share the story with many people over and over again. “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger bringing good news, Breaking the news that all’s well, proclaiming good times, announcing salvation, telling Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ ”—Isaiah 52:7 (MSG).
Several times following the conversation I had with my late mother, she made the progressive leap beyond the comfort of her generational barrier and we communicated using Skype. It was the next best thing to being there.
Just as we can share a word of encouragement and witness face to face, so we should give prayerful consideration to the manner in which God would want us to use the technology at our disposal in order to reach beyond our comfort zone, and share the message of hope and wholeness to those whose lives we touch. He asks us just to tell them, and He promises to do the rest.
Ednor A. P. Davison is the editor of the Atlantic Union Gleaner and assistant to the president for communication in the Atlantic Union Conference.