Character Confession: Amazing at Warped Speed
It’s Saturday, the day I try to reserve for Character Confession courtesy of Noelle Mena’s Pliable in His Hands. Before I confess, let me say if you’re a woman considering hosting webinars for any reason—teaching, meetings, Bible studies, book clubs…Noelle had a fantastic webinar explaining. Check it out. http://bit.ly/CWAwebinars101
Like you, I spent most of yesterday with my eyes and ears on the news regarding the earthquake in Japan and subsequent tsunami. Even as I type I’m seeing updates pop up on Tweetdeck showing me that evacuations are in place because nuclear plants are failing to cool. I put this on my FB status trying to think of something profound and effective to say:
The only way I personally know to stand tall and be a help is to fall on my knees and pray.
Among the devastating images and seemingly impossible situations rose an amazing thing: the power of social media.
Twitter and FaceBook gave the world instant access to the latest news. I read updates that helped loved ones locate each other and pass on news. I saw news outlets posting events nearly in real time. I use Tweetdeck (highly recommend) and I plugged “Japan” as one of my categories. It was mind blowing to watch the category. Literally hundreds of tweets were coming up per second from around the world. Even five years ago I wouldn’t have been able to picture such a thing.
Although celebrity presence throughout social media can be irritating and sad, I saw worldly star power shout out ways to help and ideas to come together to make a positive difference. I used to work for a non profit organization and to see entertainers put a hashtag on relief agencies with trusted reputations is a powerful endorsement no group could afford otherwise.
Amazing. Technology is moving at warped speeds. I’m breathless just watching trending categories update on Twitter, it boggles my mind. Sometimes what I see on cyberspace disappoints and frustrates. Today between the devastating tragedies and miraculous updates, I saw amazing things.
Father God, I ask that the disasters in Japan and throughout the Pacific Rim be ways for You to shine through. That people would be found, healed and provided for. That You would call forth people, organizations and governments to provide resources to provide every need. That opportunities to know and receive Your Son would be in abundance. In this time that You could use technology to accelerate Your message to the world and help for those that need it, whatever the help may be. As I type You would in Jesus’ name put a stop to the aftershocks and nuclear emergencies. What plans were meant for evil You will use for good in ways I know we might not understand. Help us put our trust in You, especially in these uncertain times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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