I think again of Gary Hamel’s article on the Facebook generation. In contrast to the static heirarchies of today’s institutions, he says,”Online hierarchies are inherently dynamic. The moment someone stops adding value to the community, his influence starts to wane. Power is always on the move, always flowing—towards those who are making a difference and away from those who aren’t.” I don’t think we realize just how easy it is for any business or church to be “unfriended” in a Facebook world.

Perhaps part of the way forward is to focus on creating communities of value rather than communities of mere belief. John Mayer sings, “Belief is a beautiful armor, but it makes for the heaviest sword.” And that sword can be wielded against our own. Which may be why many churches today have begun to develop core values in addition to statements of belief. In a world as dysfunctional as ours, healthy love and community must be coached and modeled. Common values structure and guide our relationships with each other and those outside of the group. Perhaps the right values, consistently taught and practiced from leadership on down, could help to create the kind of safe and caring community young adults yearn for in our churches.

And for the essence of the “organic” church, discipleship is as vital as the great commandment. Jesus is clear that kingdom living is more than personal piety and religious rituals. We are to do life together.

Thanks for the many ways Lisa you mentor so naturally and caringly. We need more disciples just like you.