Reaching the next generation

My friends over at SWERVE posted some thoughts on reaching the next generation. Here are their thoughts:
* Their world is smaller and their perspective is broader. Because of technology, most have been raised with a global mindset. My best friend lived across the street. Their best friend might live across the ocean.
* They have a wider definition of “friends”. To me a friend was someone you spent time with and confided in. Today a friend can be someone you may not have ever met before they clicked on your Facebook page and asked to be your friend.
* They’re more experiential. Most in my generation were into accumulating possessions. Many of the younger generation are into accumulating experiences. I read about other countries in school. Many in this generation have visited the countries I read about.
* Most have been under-challenged. Many in this generation have been given much yet they’ve been challenged little. They have more potential than most realize.
* Their world is gray. I was raised believing in absolute truth. Many in the up- coming generation believe truth is relative. “What is true for me may not be true for you.”
* They’re searching for a cause. This generation is looking for something (anything) worthwhile to live for. When they find a cause, they’ll go to extreme measures to make a difference.

I can't agree more with these observations. Our students are global in their relationships. Facebook has created a new definition of friendship. Perhaps the most convicting observation for the church is that this generation is looking for a cause, something worth living for!! Are we (the church) giving them one? Students want a cause and they want to make an impact on the world. We must as a church provide opportunities for students to get behind a cause. If we do they will truly live!