Generational Translators?
Silliness abounds in our labels of people groups. Now it’s something called “generational translators” [May 2016, "Leaders Learn to be Generational Translators"]. What religio-babble that is! … Yes, we have historical examples of younger would-be leaders being mentored by experienced older ones; i.e. Timothy and Paul, Elisha and Elijah. But the younger ones took the initiative to follow a teacher/leader. They let the Holy Spirit work in them. They didn’t need — what’s that phrase? — “generational whatevers.” We see how our early SDA church was founded and nurtured by mostly young people. How could they do this without “translators”? Because these young people took the initiative, led by God, gave their all to their mission — of course they didn’t have all those electronic gadgets, coffee bars, modern music and movies to take up their time and resources. … For anybody of any age, there are groups and resources abounding in Christian organizations for you to deeply learn about culture, communication and mentoring. You have no valid reason in excusing yourself by blaming the lack of “generational translators” in your life. Take the initiative, be fully grateful for what the older generations have brought into your life and quit dividing the church into groups. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Gal. 3:24).
Robert Natiuk, Battle Ground, Wash.
Valid Observations
I just finished the article by Mackenzie Thompson [May 2016, "Stepping Over the Barbed Wire"]. She is gifted in her writing ability. Her concerns are very relevant to our church today. I hope she works someplace in the Adventist Church organization. Thank you for the article.
Kerry Arnott, Vancouver, Wash.
