One of the interesting responses to the question I ask on Facebook a few days ago: “What's the most important bit of advice you'd give me, as I start as a pastor...?" was from one of my son's mates reflecting on connecting with the many, particularly younger generations, who might still believe, but don't participate or attend a local church.
Dave, in his late twenties is a talented design professional. "I live where digital, identity and creativity collide. I am an award-winning digital, brand and marketing consultant, with experience working in and with successful start-ups, products and enterprises for over 10 years. I believe the greatest travesty in marketing is a business blind to its own identity. I'm passionate about exploring the role of both business and personal 'identity' and how it creates space for transparency, advocacy and success."
Here's our FB conversation:
David: "All the best on the new gig Martin! And what a great question! I spent four years not doing the 'church thing'. Here's my input for what it's worth:
Address those who are busy. Meet their needs. Some of them need leadership and have no time to receive it. Others have to prioritise every hour and need a reason to put church in that list. It's easy to rebut and say 'church should be a priority' and eventually it does - once you're engaged - but how do you engage a exhausted father at the end of a 60 hour work week? Or an entrepreneur with 1000 thoughts an hour. Or a mother of three with a part time job? Life is getting busier, faster and equally, positively, more productive....
So I suggest you try to think of ways to actively engage a faster, busier, more productive demographic first."
Martin: That's really perceptive, David. Two questions: I'm interested, do you think the exhaustion 'thing' is a growing phenomenon, or has it always been thus? Second question, what would make 'church' a legit priority for busy people - why not argue that 'church' in any form has had its day and move on? In other words, what does 'church' need to mean to move up the list?
Dave: I’ve been there myself and I’ve met countless ‘believers’ who just don’t feel the need for church in their lives. Obviously, I plugged into church and the AHA! moment kicked in when I discovered the value of leadership, fellowship and community… but I remain convicted by the people who are genuinely interested and totally not engaged.
