The Social Network

As much as I enjoy Tumblr and its benefits, at times it gets a bit too social. Especially because it's linked to my Facebook page, the whole world can see what I post on Tumblr, and this isn't much of an exaggeration. The whole WORLD. Some lonely 50-year old man in Russia may be reading what I'm writing right now. Thus, I don't know how I feel about writing anything too personal here, and I applaud all those who can display the intricacies of their lives on their Tumblr pages. I don't think I will ever have the guts to do that.


But if we look at the true value of Facebook, Tumblr, and other massive social networks, we see that the very thing I am afraid of is its jewel. It is so available for people to see; technology has taken us very far indeed. We can reach people on opposite ends of the world. We are all connected somehow, as corny as it sounds.


But then this makes me think. Anyone (well I guess it really depends on your privacy settings, but in most cases this includes the strangers you're FB friends with but barely even know) can see who you are and what you stand for. Anyone can see who you hang out with, what you look like, what you believe in, and how you interact with other people. Without even meeting you, someone can decide what kind of person you are, and often times they may guess correctly.


So with all this in mind, let's think. If someone looked at my profile, my comments, my pictures, will he be able to immediately tell that I am Christian? Will they see someone lives as one redeemed?


More and more, I realize how much of an amazing tool for evangelism Facebook and Tumblr are. What awesome ways to preach the message of the Gospel. Sure, it may not be the most effective tool, but it is a tool nonetheless, is it not? I realize this about myself but at times I forget that even on Facebook I am to be held accountable for my words. It's easy to use, easily accessible, and more than anything, it is global. We use it while we study, we look at it while we eat, and it's effortless. Then why is it that the Gospel is so evident in our lives but stops short on Facebook where everyone can see us and hold us accountable for our words?


And as I write all this, I am ashamed that I myself cannot use it to do more than glorify myself. I am always falling short.