The "Real" Social Network-Group and Living Social, the Power of Learning other languages

Sunday, August 21st, Pastor Shaunte' delivered the message of the last of the "Real" Social Network Series at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church. These are the notes I took from her incredible sermon at the Crosswalk service.

Pastor Shante' began by saying that we were created to be "in community". As much as we want all people to be in church worshipping as we are on Sundays, people don't have to "walk" in those doors to receive a message of hope. The question arose: Are we using the social network to our advantage?

Matthew 9:9 says "As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow Me," He told him, and Matthew got up and followed Him." The word "follow" is in the Bible 86 times. A Disciple is defined as a follower, a learner, or a pupil. When you become a Disciple of Christ you begin to know who you are and what you are to do with your life.

Pastor Shante' gave a couple of points on this:

1. You will find a need and meet it. Luke 10:33-37 is the story of the good Samaritan. If you have never read it, you should. It is a story Jesus tells to His disciples to let them know they should be as the Samaritan by saying "Go and do likewise" (verse 37). The Pastor mentioned that we are not really "bad" people, but that we tend to be "too busy" hence the priest and the Levi in this story.

2. You will find a hurt and heal it. Matthew 9:35 says "Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness."

3. You will do a bunch of things Christ calls you to do that won't fit neatly in these points. John 10:27 says "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."

What are you doing as a Christ follower?

Pastor Shante' said this at the end of her message: Before you tweet, Facebook, or post anything in your social media again, ask yourself these questions:

1. Is what I am about to share promoting God and His love?
2. Will it promote love to other people?

Father, thank you for this modern day series that was given to us through your messengers. May what is read here be carved on our hearts to serve you better and make us more aware of how to love others. Continue growing in our hearts and minds and help us to be mindful as the Samaritan. We need your grace and loving kindness daily in our lives. In your Son's precious name.

Amen