More than gadgets

So often the discussion about digital media centres around the latest gadgets and software. I'm sure when the telephone first came onto the scene there was similar discussion. (I know there was when the fax machine first entered common use.)

But the current new technology is affecting lives. The digital media is used by real people. The gadgets and software are simply a means to an end.

I remember in 1996 when Hurricane Mitch devastated Nicaragua how thankful we were that we still had fax communication with the mission in Chinandega. The technology allowed us to tell the story across the country and mobilize a relief effort that changed, and continues to change lives in Nicaragua.

Home video on the Internet brought the December 26, 2004 tsunami into living rooms and onto computer screens around the world. Again, the digital communication made possible an unprecedented global response.

In North America we have a legacy communication infrastructure of wired telephones, cabled TVs and hardcopy newspapers. In other parts of the world which do not have these remnants of a past century's technological innovation, the digital world is the primary communication mode. Things we are just discovering are already the norm!

Lutheran Hour Ministries in Hong Kong has used text messaging for years to attract people to a Gospel message—a message that changes lives.

The new social media and digital technology connects people and builds relationships. Within those relationships our Facebook friends, fellow tweeters on Twitter, and MySpace buddies can learn who we are and how our faith affects our life. That's a lot more than gadgets can do!