NOISE 2009

We live in a noisy world. Our senses are constantly flooded with sound. Imagine a world in which there are no cars or planes speeding by, no speakers blaring, and no roaring televisions. Imagine if there were no iPods attached to our ears or cell phones continually ringing. Would there be any noise left? Our lives would be silent in comparison to today's society. Think about it. Such silence would be uncomfortable. The silence would be deafening.

How does all of this noise affect our relationship with God?

This journey on looking at the affects of noise and faith started during an hour long car ride with no music. It was surprising to find how many things I, Bryant, could think through and the number of ideas I could grasp in this time of silence. Noise had been getting in the way of completing a thought. So often, our inability to tune out the noise leaves us tuned out to what God is doing in our lives. Engaging in the discipline of silence and solitude can be significant ways to learn how to listen again. When was the last time you were in a space of listening to God's voice?

We can find God in both the silence and the noise. In Scripture we see that Jesus spent time away from the crowds in quiet prayer and reflection, as well as time teaching and preaching. The Psalmist exhorts us to "Make a joyful noise to the Lord." This presents an interesting paradox. Though the noise of today's society impedes on our relationship with Christ, we also need to create noise that aligns with the Christian worldview which deafens all falsehoods and allows truth to be heard.

Noise is the starting place for Youth Conference 2009. We are excited to explore this issue and to see where God leads us in this journey. And we want you to join us.