e-Debauchery

Hello.

Welcome. You’re here. You’ve arrived at the information super highway. And you’re competent with this whole “internet” thing. I bet you’ve noticed a surge in the blogging activity here too: we seminarians need to keep ourselves occupied during the summer. So, here’s a question for you: have you heard of this “Facebook” thing? /sarcasm off

Ok. All sarcasm aside – it’s interesting to see how many people from seminary are using this web based tool. It’s quite useful for networking, but this isn’t to say that there isn’t plenty of e-debauchery. It tends to serve as a distraction or deflection in class. It’s also a means of one making personal what otherwise what would be inaccessible: birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, et cetera. It’s also a means of one advertising personal one’s achievements or personal follies.

One can advertise everything from one’s political views to one’s religious beliefs. Here’s something to consider: the next time you make use of Facebook – gander at your buddies’ religious views. What do you expect? Facebook (much like Youtube commentary) is basically the public bathroom wall of the internet. You’ll bear witness to a veritable crop of views, but likely will come across many sullied, world-weary, “settled” college age kids that take the opportunity to advertise their distaste (and sometimes hatred) for established religion. I suppose that as Christian leaders and educators we can learn from these jaded views, but it takes discipline to resist retorting to such inflammatory commentary. Remember: don't fight fire with fire.

I sincerely hope you have a good night.

-Dan