First it was Full House, then X-Files, and now Roseanne. It seems a lot of 80s-era TV shows are being rebooted or making comebacks. TV shows and movies get recycled all the time, but usually with all new actors or updated sets, locations or technology. This time around, however, the appeal for many reboots is seeing the original casts in their original settings.

Back in time

Why are we drawn to reboots or comebacks? First, shows that were good the first time around (highly rated, well-written, long-running) stand the test of time and can be updated easily to reflect current times and attract new audiences. Second, many people idealize the past and like to remember a time when they felt happy or comforted, or believe life was simpler (even if that is not the reality). Finally, many people connected or identified with their favorite characters and want to reconnect with those characters years later.

Forward in faith

We can have similar experiences in our faith life. We may remember a time when going to church, attending a certain Bible study/fellowship group, or participating in a mission event was particularly meaningful. If a church has experienced a pastoral change, some people may miss the way things used to be, or they may miss certain traditions that have fallen away. Our memories of past good times and experiences are powerful tools that can help us reboot when necessary, but only if we understand that we can’t actually go back. Instead we must consider new perspectives or behaviors and learn to adapt and move forward. A faith reboot can happen anytime—after a loss or trauma, during an intense spiritual experience like a mission trip or Bible study or special worship service, after a major life change (moving, graduation, breakup), or simply as a result of feeling stagnant in spiritual growth. Regardless of the cause, teens can view faith reboots as part of the normal cycle of their faith journey.

Question of the day: When have you been amazed?
Focal scriptures: 1 Chronicles 16:1-36; Luke 19:1-28; Hebrews 12:1-12

For a complete lesson on this topic visit LinC.