PRECISE COMMUNICATION IN A HANDFUL OF WORDS

Putting my words on a diet. I manage several blog pages. I generate too many words. Users read only 20% to 28% of the words in an average Web page. Even high-literacy users scan and often only the beginning. Readers don't read very much. I have decided to put my word count on a strict diet. They'll have to work hard for survival.

Front loading my Ideas. Since users spend 80% of their time on the top end of the page, I will start with the conclusion. I must insure that the first lines pack a summary punch. I'll limit paragraphs to one idea. I will use bulleted lists & meaningful sub-headings. I have assumed photos attract attention. Not so much, unless, the image contains relevant information.

Credibility is crucial. A good reputation works in my favour. Users know they can trust my copy and they know I write carefully and well. Since I've done my homework, I offer links to others sites.

That's my intention in an ever-increasing glut of information.

CHECK YOUR FACTS OR SOMEONE ELSE WILL

“Really?” I have heard that one word question a few times when discussing with others what they heard from respected pastors in a sermon. And it’s not just millenials who are checking the facts. When preachers tell stories or illustrate key points with anecdotes purported as fact, rest assured, a few people are scrutinizing the evidence. Increasing numbers of churchgoers are living with internet constancy, and that means that when the ear flags a questionable statement, google or Snopes are referenced immediately, and you may have lost that hearer for the duration. Get your facts straight. Don’t spew myths. Don’t fail to do your homework on the stories as well as the bible text. Check your facts so your credibility remains convincing.

SHOULD YOU BE INVOLVED IN RESTORING THE CHURCH?

What if God wants those who cannot help but be cynical about church right now, to actually help improve it? What if some of the observations that have fed the cynicism are actual? And now, what if you cynics are actually being called by God to reconstitute her, that is, the church? You can sit on your duffs and crab until you croak but that will serve no purpose. If you agree that the church is enduring, and by that I mean the church constituted of all whom Christ has emancipated, then you cannot in good faith give up on her. You are part of her. If you are correct to be cynical about the condition and the operations of church, are you not one of those many who should be active in restoring her credibility?