Confessions of a Gaming Pastor
Just as Jesus met people in their everyday lives, we too are called to engage with the world around us, embracing new avenues of outreach and connection.
Hi, I’m Pastor Chris. I write this newsletter. Join me for weekly posts where I share my journey and faith-based encouragement.
You might not know this about me, but I’m a gamer. Well, inasmuch as a Pastor has time for gaming. With an unyielding schedule, my gaming time is limited—perhaps just once a week, often even less. I know that doesn’t make me a true gamer—don’t come for me—but I enjoy it when I can make the time.
Maybe it’s being raised in the Northwest where the good weather is sequestered to the 2-3 months of summer, and then we’re back to dreary days.
While I’m not a fan of games that exalt darkness, I’m drawn to storylines where out of immeasurable odds, the hero swoops in and saves the day. Whether I’m battling monsters, zombies, or a dirty driveway. There’s a game where you can power wash just about anything, and it's pretty relaxing. There’s a sense of accomplishment that comes from passing a quest and getting the badge of honor at the end.
I remember the days when most games were single-player and these massive multiplayer online games were hard to play and weren’t on consoles yet. Sometimes I go back to a game that is single-player because it's relaxing and doesn’t move as quickly. I love games where you can build something or reach a goal. There’s just something about the way I’m wired to continually build and grow.
Recently, I ran across this group called God Squad Church. They are an online-only group that’s a church. They are set up as a 100% bona fide church that has services online and reaches the gaming community. I was messaging with their community Pastor the other day, and he was talking about a health issue that he and his wife have that prevents them from leaving the house. It made me think about the growing population of adults that are isolated in this way. Who’s reaching them? I love that we can bring the message of Christ and establish community in the digital space.
Our lives are intricately woven with technology, shaping the way we connect, learn, and even worship. We must recognize the importance of meeting people where they are—both physically and digitally.
Just as Jesus met people in their everyday lives, we too are called to engage with the world around us, embracing new avenues of outreach and connection.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I see parallels between my gaming and my faith journey. In the midst of digital realms and virtual communities, I find assurance in God’s word. Take, for instance, Joshua 1:9, where God encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous, assuring him of His constant presence. This assurance holds true for us today, reminding us that God is with us wherever we go, even in the virtual landscape.
Moreover, I'm inspired by initiatives like God Squad Church, which recognizes the significance of reaching people in the digital space, especially gamers. This proactive approach mirrors Jesus’ ministry, where he ventured into diverse settings to connect with individuals from all walks of life.
Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV): “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Jesus commissioned his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, promising to be with them always. This mandate transcends physical boundaries, encompassing the digital space where many individuals now reside.
As we engage with the world in new and innovative ways, let us embrace the challenge of meeting people where they are, just as Jesus did.
Whether we’re navigating virtual landscapes or engaging in face-to-face encounters, let’s remain steadfast in our mission to share God’s love and grace with all whom we encounter. By doing this, we continue the timeless legacy of Jesus’ ministry, reaching hearts and transforming lives in every corner of the world—both online and offline.
I would challenge you this week to think of a way you can reach someone who’s out of touch with the church.
What can you do to connect people to community?
Reaching out to someone who is disconnected from the church is both a challenge and an opportunity to extend the love of the Christian community.
Here are some steps to accomplish this:
1. Identify Potential Contacts: Start by identifying individuals in your social circle, neighborhood, or workplace who are disconnected from the church. Look for subtle signs such as expressions of loneliness, spiritual curiosity, or a desire for community.
2. Listen with Empathy: Take the time to genuinely listen to their concerns, doubts, and experiences without judgment. Create a safe space for them to share their thoughts and feelings about church, spirituality, and community.
3. Invite Them to Non-Church Events: Organize non-church-related gatherings such as coffee meetups, movie nights, or outdoor activities where individuals can socialize in a relaxed setting. This allows them to experience community without the pressure of religious expectations.
4. Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Initiate conversations about topics that resonate with their interests, passions, and values. Show genuine curiosity and respect for their perspective, and be open to sharing your own faith journey in a non-confrontational manner.
5. Offer Practical Support: Extend acts of kindness and practical support, such as helping with household tasks, providing transportation, or offering emotional support during challenging times. These gestures demonstrate the tangible love and compassion of the Christian community.
6. Introduce Them to Inclusive Church Communities: Identify church communities that prioritize authenticity. Introduce them to church members who can provide support, encouragement, and friendship.
7. Provide Resources for Spiritual Exploration: Offer books, podcasts, online resources, or local events that explore spirituality from diverse perspectives. Encourage them to explore their spiritual questions and doubts at their own pace.
8. Extend Invitations to Church Events: Invite them to church events or services that emphasize inclusivity, community, and authenticity. Offer to accompany them to alleviate any apprehension or anxiety they may have about attending alone.
9. Follow Up and Maintain Connection: Stay in touch with regular check-ins, invitations to future events, or simply sending encouraging messages. Continuously affirm their value and belonging within the Christian community.
10. Pray for Them: Lift them up in prayer, asking for God's guidance, comfort, and presence to be with them as they navigate their spiritual journey. Trust in the transformative power of prayer to cultivate openness to God's love and grace.
As we roll through the twists and turns of life, let's remember to reach out to those who are disconnected from the church. Just like how gaming has become a part of my life (hey, gotta have some downtime, right?), making unexpected connections and giving me a breather, we can extend that same vibe to folks looking for community.
Let's take up this challenge with some good ol' gumption and a heap of compassion. Whether it's shooting the breeze, lending a hand, or just being there to listen, let's show folks the love of Christ and invite them to be part of something bigger.
And hey, you're not in this alone. God's got your back, walking alongside you, giving you that extra boost when you need it most. So, this week, why not reach out to someone who could use a bit of connection? Share your stories, lend a hand, and let them know they're welcome with open arms.
I'm right here rooting for you every step of the way. Drop a comment below and share your gaming tales, times when you’ve connected someone to faith, or whatever's on your mind.
Together, let's keep the faith alive, one connection at a time.
I love this so much. I’m a chaplain and most importantly a follower of Jesus who LOVES games.
I’ve always seen video games as artistic medium of telling complex and thoughtful stories.
They have given me the ability to connect with others, connect with myself, and find rest in a busy and stressful world.
I’ve gotten flak for loving them, but that has never dissuaded me from enjoying them as a hobby.
Of course, like anything, moderation is key, but I’m so thankful to live in a time where there are video games. They have brought joy and excitement in stressful times.