Technology, teens and grace

I sat behind three teen-aged girls at church today. Typical for teens living in 2007, they were more interested in texting than listening to Pastor Steve, but I told myself I was happier that at least they were sitting in church...it's a start.

Then came the last song and the slide went up while Jamie was talking about Chris Daughtry from American Idol and his song, "Home." The girls were shocked when they saw what song was coming up, as in, Daughtry at church? More than one raised eyebrow was seen, then Jamie started to sing. Then their phones came out. Videos on. Yep. These girls videotaped Jamie's cover of Daughtry. Awesome. When was the last time you saw that at church?

So if you see Jamie Brown on YouTube, don't be too surprised. Others may raise an eyebrow or two and wonder what kind of church brings Daughtry in the house. Maybe that wonder will be what it takes to get them to come find out for themselves. Maybe Daughtry will be a bridge between someone who knows rock stars but not the Rock.

The next time you see teens at church playing with cell phones, remember grace and remember that bridges can be built the traditional way or we can use modern technology and modern music.

Rock on.
LMF