“What we do online is connection, not community.”
I read that quotation in a magazine next to an article debating the validity of online churches. Apparently people are gathering to worship, pray, hear the Word, and mingle online. Not my cup of tea…though it would make it easier to drink one during church.
So the quotation was from a reportedly popular Christian blogger. She was saying that while communicating — blogging, twittering, emailing — online is good for keeping people connected, it does not constitute the type of authentic community to which we are called.
As I’ve explored the world post-Race, I have become increasingly aware that the World Race is not real life. The World Race throws you into the deep end of community and says, “Hope you learn to swim!” Now we’re back in the States where individuality is king. It doesn’t take long to feel like you’re sitting all alone in a dark corner ready to weep yourself dry. And we wonder where all that community went so fast.
I shared my initial shock from the loss of community, talking about how I had to take my luggage into the restroom with me at the Boston airport. After a year experiencing community whether we want it or not, it can be hard to remember that community is pursued and created. It doesn’t just happen.
So I heartily agree with our “popular Christian blogger” friend. Blogging, twittering, emailing, and texting are great ways to stay connected. Rarely, however, do they provide us solid opportunities to challenge and encourage one another the way we are called to do in the Body of Christ. But here’s the thing: we cannot foster community unless we stay connected. I cannot speak into the life of my brother unless I know what’s going on with him.
A lot of my work lately has involved staying connected. I also have time and opportunity to stay connected with people from my World Race squad. And I’m really happy about that.
I think all of us coming off the Race have shared a common struggle. How do we seek the blessing that comes from community when the people we know so well and love so much are so far away? Will we find another community that works that well? The danger is to sit in those questions and the insecurity that comes with them and never to pick up the phone. Never to pen the email.
So last night before I went to bed I sent a text to my buddy from the G-Squad telling him he should check out a funny video online. What did that do for his walk with the Lord? Probably nada. But it maintained a Holy connection. We are walking in proximity. When it is necessary the lines of communication, fostered by texts about funny videos, will be open for challenge and encouragement.
