Why Should I Still Carry a Pen?

Not long ago I was in a situation where a friend needed a pen. Another friend rhetorically asked, “Who still carries a pen?” He was shocked when I quickly pulled one from my pocket and said, “I do.”

Is it no longer common practice for people to have a pen on hand?

Has having an i-This and an i-That for everything replaced this ageless writing tool for good?

I’m not 100% sure, but there’s one sure-fire way to find out…Google it!

Today I searched the web to find out the answer to, “Should I still carry a pen?” In less than one second, I received 52.7 million pieces of unverified advice. The digital age is changing the way we find, process, and respond to information. It’s possible that pen and paper may one day be obsolete, but today isn’t that day.

As I consider the children’s ministry year ahead of us, I can’t fathom moving ahead without a pen. It’s true that online solutions are eliminating pens from the hands of many church administrators and Awana clubs secretaries. But, good ol’ pen and paper is still essential for many other things – jotting a quick note, drawing a picture, sketching an idea, journaling deep thoughts, and doodling away boredom.

You probably have your own motivation for keeping a pen in your pocket or purse, but I’d say there are a few practical reasons and one that trumps them all.

Reason #1: I carry a pen because relationships are primarily analog.

For all the technology we have at our fingertips, the best way to connect with people is in close proximity. Skype is face-to-face, but it’s just not the same as sitting side-by-side in the same room. Children of all ages (adults included) need high-fives, handshakes, and hugs from people who love them unconditionally. It’s part of how God created us to experience true community. Having a pen equips me to write a thank you card on the spot or put a thank you note in my kids’ lunch before school.

Reason #2: I carry a pen because communication happens with or without electricity.

Yes, typing is efficient and effective. And yes, a PowerPoint presentation does create a bigger “wow effect” more easily than chicken scratch on a chalkboard. But, what happens when the power gets shut off or batteries run dry? I’ve been in teaching situations overseas where electricity was intermittent. I know what it’s like to improvise because Plan A required power and there was none to be found for hours. As we engage with people, it’s important to remember that communication can take a lot of forms without ever using a power switch.

Reason #3: Discipleship requires me to be ready at any moment.

I don’t need my digital device to access my Bible or prayer journal. I don’t need my tablet, smartphone, or computer to follow Jesus in serving the poor or worshiping God with all my heart. These technologies are great as long as they don’t distract or deter me from true discipleship. Having a pen in my pocket reminds me to be ready for whatever God wants from me. Sometimes that means sharing my pen with someone who needs it. And, at other times, it means using my pen to express God’s love with truth and grace in unique ways.

1 Peter 3:15 says, “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

Reason #4: The Gospel flows from tip of my life and my lips…and sometimes the tip of my pen.

Anyone who knows me well will attest to my affection for blank paper, whiteboards, and napkins. I’m constantly putting ideas out there for consideration, and often it’s helpful to others and me when I draw or write. Having a pen with me is an act of preparation for whatever and whomever God sends my way in a given day. It’s also helpful when the opportunity arises to share a Scripture or draw a Gospel diagram with someone.

At Awana, we have a tool for sharing the Gospel with clarity. We believe every believer, especially parents, leaders, and other kid-influencers, ought to memorize this diagram, words, and supporting Bible verses. Having a pen handy can ensure you’re always prepared to communicate the good news of salvation through faith in Christ in at least one way.

Gospel Wheel Challenge – Fall 2016

Commit to memorizing the Gospel Wheel to kick off the 2016-2017 children’s ministry season. Then, challenge everyone on your team to do the same!

I went ahead and Googled “Awana Gospel Wheel” for you already. It turned up 51.5K results in half a second. Rather than comb through all the links and images out there, here’s one that will help you out for sure.

Kevin Castleberry, Education and Student Minister at Mexia Baptist Church in Alabama, did a fantastic job covering all the parts of the Gospel Wheel in a video last year.

Carve out five and a half minutes to watch The Gospel Wheel [CLICK HERE] and then send the link to everyone in your children’s ministry or Awana club. At your next leaders meeting, get some pens and paper and practice sharing the Gospel Wheel with each other from memory.

*If you find the video helpful, Tweet Kevin a word of encouragement here: @KCastleberry