Bridging the Generational Divide
So often what keeps us from making real and heartfelt connections with those from a different generation are the pre-conceived notions we have about that group.
Such as: “They don’t care about me.” “They are so different than me.” “I have nothing in common with them.” “What would we talk about?” And these doubts and wrong attitudes keep us from building a bridge.
I hope you will take a few minutes to watch this poignant video. It is very well made and would be an excellent way to spark a dialogue between the teens, young adults and older adults in your church.
The Bible clearly communicates that intergenerational relationships are essential for passing on matters of faith. In fact King David begged God, “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” Psalm 71:18 (italics mine).
No matter how hard it might be to build those relationships, we must work to make it happen. In our families. In our churches. In our neighborhoods. In our world.
Why is it so hard to make meaningful connections across generational lines? What can the church do to help bridge the generation gap?
We need to inform young pastors that the Boomers and Millennials have a lot in common. They are our kids and they have taught us much as we have both led them and followed them into their new culture. I contend that we are not that far apart in our missional attitudes and our worship preferences. We are both weary of program driven churches and we are both demanding authenticity or we lose interest. Yet many young pastors are singularly focused on the young not realizing that a dual strategy to reach Boomers and Millennials/Busters can work and will make their church more healthy.