We as a church need to appeal to the younger generation’s desire to make a difference in the world around them. Be intentional about using social media and other new technology. Don’t view all change as a bad thing.
Realize that while they have access to endless amounts of information, they have no idea where to find real wisdom and guidance. They are flooded with such an overload of opinions and information that they are often left feeling perplexed and confused.
For those born post 9/11, a world marked by terror and economic recession is all they’ve ever known. They are comparable to the greatest generation, in a sense, except their upbringing is vastly different. Many of them have broken nuclear families, and most don’t have parents who take them to church.
What they do have is a desire to do good, a desire to be happy and fulfilled, but often times have no idea how to achieve those things. Depression is on the rise in this generation, and many people, even young children, say they feel hopeless about their future.
What they need first is not to be judged or looked down upon. They need a message of HOPE that is only found in Jesus Christ. They need the blessed assurance that despite the terror and anxiety that they observe constantly in the world around them, there is something bigger and better that will bring them true peace and contentment.
They need to learn this not by being preached to solely with words, but by observing the actions, behavior, and attitude of Christians around them. And for goodness’ sake, those church members had better be genuine. They don’t want anything to do with “fake” people, and they have a good radar.
Finally, once friendships and trust have been established (which will take time – possibly years), they will feel comfortable enough to accept criticism of their life choices if need be, assuming it’s offered in a loving way. Then they will be able to receive the message of forgiveness that comes from Jesus. They probably won’t jump headfirst into organized religion – but know that they are searching for the “answers” and the key to happiness, possibly more than any other generation before them.
