Dude… that's the truth! This is also true in many other aspects of life. The more I observe around me, the more I learn that social media is just the tool that reflects what's probably already going on inside people. So in a broader statement…

we can't sit back and let LIFE happen to us… and that totally includes what we do in social media.

Great post Crystal!

i think then love then compels us to create community – to allow God to form connections – for us to encourage, shine and pray for people. some of the neatest connections i have made on fb and twitter is because God put someone on my heart to pray for them. that love then flows into communication and community.

heres my take on chapter 2: http://onepassiononedevotion.wordpress.com/2011/0…

Paul – this is so very true.

Jesus's ministry was full of conundrums … his ability to make a true impact in the life of the people in the crowds was enhanced by the community that he formed with those closest to him – and vice versa. I almost get overwhelmed when I think about "the greater things" that I am called to do, and then I remember all I can do is take baby steps along the way!

Thanks Sarah!

I am much more in favor of the second too! But I do think that there are times when are lists get inflated and we don't do a good job of reaching out to the people "on our list" … so just the thought of "shortening my list" makes me want to be more intentional about reaching out 🙂

"Cool. I get to be a missionary all over the world and I don't even have to get dressed up or leave my desk!"

I LOVE THIS! We are all called to be missionaries … right where we are. What a gift social media is!

What a great perspective!

It is so hard sometimes to keep going … wondering if the words we are saying are even making a difference. And while I do think quantity is some indicator that we are "doing the right thing", I think it's so easy to get caught up in "growing the number" without focusing on the relationship. What I loved about this chapter was that it stressed the importance of focusing on relationship … and when you do that well, the numbers will grow. Because it's not only about the words you say, it's about the relationship you build in using those words.

Tami – thanks for your kind words. Building online community has been something I've been really wrestling with lately, and this chapter hit so many nails right on their heads!