Post #83 Wider...

We've discussed the importance of growing smaller and getting deeper in regards to discipleship and the Church in general. Now we will look at what it means to reach wider. I once read that the average American had over 1000 people in their network of contacts. That means that at any given time, we could reach out to nearly 1000 people for help, friendship, or advice. With the growth of social networking sites like MySpace or Facebook, as well as the use of blogs, our network is not just huge, it is instant. I can chat with a friend in Thailand while simultaneously checking in on my dad in Indiana. The one enormous advantage to such a wide reach is that we are able to access so much information and resources. 50 years ago radio, tv, and print media were the only news sources. Now, I check 10 different news sites and several blogs before I even start my day. This instant and ever expanding access also allows me to become aware of organizations and charities around the world helping and healing those who are sick, hungry, thirsty, desperate, and dying. They provide hope to the hopeless. Not only do I get the chance to learn about these groups, I have the opportunity to assist them, promote them, and even join them in their efforts. What does this all mean for the church? It means that even the smallest congregation, house church, or small group can have a tremendous impact on the lives of others. It means that even if our numbers are small, we can have an enormous voice. It means that our reach is wider than ever and our influence and assistance can help more people than ever. In a world so small, we have few excuses for not helping "the least of these." For additional study, focus on Matthew 22:35-40, Matthew 25:35-40.