The Gap

On Saturday I spoke to a few women at a conference about bridging the generation gap that exists between women in the church. I basically asked two questions, 1) What is our responsibility to the younger generation? According to Titus 2, a more mature believer is required to live a reverent life, teach what is good, and urge a life of purity among the younger individuals. 2) How can I contribute to the multi-generational rebuilding process in the church? Hebrews 10:25 says that we are to stay connected to other believers (and this implies ALL believers regardless of age), and that is done through meeting together and encouraging one another.

A generation gap does exist, but the remedy is simple. Intentionally invest in relationships with those in various age groups. This is challenging to do because many times we focus on what is different about us. I used these examples; In 1958 the top selling toy was the hola hoop. In 2007, it was Webkinz (we are certainly in the tech age). In 1958 the number one song in America was "At the Hop" by Danny and the Juniors. Currently, fifty years later, the number one song in America is "Low" by Flo Rida. I printed out both lyrics, but opted not to read the latter, for obvious reasons. My premise was that because we have differences many people are intimidated to interact with those outside of their own generation. My challenge was to purposefully form relationships with these younger generations with the intention of investing in them.

Within various generations times are different, fashion is different, experiences are different, priorities are different, and culture is different. It is tempting to be overwhelmed with what we DON'T have in common. That is exactly what the world does, and that's precisely what the enemy desires. But, it's what is the same that connects us. Especially within the church, we have the same Father, the same Savior, and we are on the same faith journey. In regards to women specifically, regardless of age, we have the same fundamental emotional desires...we want to be loved, and we want to have a purpose (we need to be loved, and we love to be needed). My prayer is that women would begin to focus on the sameness of our needs and our spiritual journey, and begin to connect with those around us for the purpose of encouraging one another, and for advancing God's kingdom.

P.S. In closing I thought I'd give these women, who ranged in age from their early 50's to mid 80's, a taste of culture...I taught them to say, "That's how I roll yo". It was the highlight of my week to hear these kind, well mannered, sophisticated, and spiritual women talking like gangsters. They were laughing up a storm as they practiced the line on one another. Good times.