Eminent Domain

In the age of technology, a ministry presence entails more than having a church address. As the worship arts grow, we are witnessing more liturgical dance studios, performance companies, garment manufacturers, websites, social networking pages, and more. The tools of technology can be used to reach a wider audience than ever before. Though word-of-mouth is still the best form of advertisement, reaching out to others can be accomplished with just a few clicks.

Relying on flashy websites and stunning graphics does not make us any more anointed or qualified than the next dance minister. The reality is that people will judge us based on our appearance, and that includes printed materials and online presence. If we have a website or social networking page, there should be no conflicting images or messages posted. It is quite surprising, yet common, to see "praise dancers" post images of themselves in both dance garments and swimwear. No one should have to correct us as to the appropriateness of how we represent the Kingdom. As most social networking sites require little more than an e-mail address, we are really without excuse for not being accessible.

Having a ministry website can be the equivalent of purchasing "cyber real estate." We can use our websites as territory claimed for God to get the glory. Most common dance ministry phrases have already been chosen for domain names. Tweaking a few words can still result in a page that accurately captures the ministry name. It is difficult to locate websites via search engines that have domain names that are too lengthy or are difficult to remember. Having an online presence today is relatively affordable. It can also be very costly, but the results are typically professional and provide interactive features. We can always do it ourselves if we learn the basics of design and frequently spell-check. Using these resources can allow us to reach people far beyond our own borders and cultures.

Proverbs 22:29 (NKJV)
Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.

Luke 19:13 (NKJV)
So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’

2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV)
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

Romans 10:18 (NKJV)
But I say, have they not heard? Yes indeed: “Their sound has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.”