The National Facebook Fast took place on August 25. The campaign was a great reminder of the importance of connecting with family and friends.
The effort encouraged participants to unplug from social media, the Internet and all technologies. And to spend time taking note of the needs of others.
A profound question
Before going further, it should be pointed out that I didn’t participate in the fast, but wholeheartedly embraced it’s spirit.
I agree with Anne Jackson, author and speaker, from Nashville, Tennessee, who addressed the practice of digital fasting in her thoughtful essay, “Why I Kissed Facebook Goodbye.”
“I don’t believe everyone should quit using Facebook, or be afraid of it if one hasn’t started,” she said. “We just need to be aware of the ways any form of media can interrupt our time with God or those closest to us.”
Jackson concluded her essay with an ultimate question, for the social media world as for every other world:
Is how I’m spending my time bringing glory to God?
With technology transforming the world, and seemingly every aspect of our lives, this is a profound question for our day.
I became actively engaged with radio broadcasting in my teens. Media and technology are now second nature to me. I’ve had to learn that anything we pursue (no matter how good it seems) can become an idol if not managed with the strength of God’s grace.
The National Facebook Fast reminded me of that. I was grateful.
New world of relationships
The fast also reminded me of people with spiritual needs right outside my door.
I’m speaking of people in the online world that are using the Internet to look for meaning in life. Yesterday, during the 24-hour period the fast was taking place:
TWO MILLION people. All over the world. Roamed the Internet. Looking for God.
Through the tools developed by the online evangelism ministry Global Media Outreach (GMO), these people are brought to the ‘electronic front door’ of anyone with a computer.
Real people, online, waiting for someone to open their internet portal to notice them.
Online ministry relationships
I wasn’t able to physically go to the other side of the world to care for their needs. Didn’t have to. All I had to do was open my door (log on) and greet the five people waiting, seeking hope.
Here is a selection of what was on their hearts:
“I want to know about being a Christian.” L., Myanmar
“How would I make friends who are really committed to Christ?” D., Ghana
“I just prayed to receive Christ into my life for the first time. Thanks.” L., United Kingdom
“Please, can you give me a Bible?” S., Ghana
“There has been times when I wanted to falter but God has always kept me. I praise Him and honor Him for helping me each and every day. He is faithful. Thank you for the encouragement. Be blessed.” T., Alabama (USA)
The fast put a spotlight on this grand privilege God has given the Church to tell the people in Cyberspace about the love of Jesus. To answer their spiritual questions. Pray for their specific needs.
Thank you
I feel Woodlands Church and Pastor Kerry Shook, who have stellar technology and online ministry platforms, deserve high recognition and praise for spearheading the National Facebook Fast.
They’ve reminded me that all people in the world matter to God. And we can bring Him glory by focusing on them, face-to-face primarily, and at other times in ministry online.
Question: What did you think of the National Facebook Fast? Are you engaged in online missions? How? Is it something you or your church would get involved with?