Technology is a blessing, even with the added work and distractions it creates. The advantages simply outweigh the downside. For instance our daughter and her family live in Italy. Twenty years ago our communication with them would have been limited to letters and expensive phone calls. Now we Skype with them several times a week, allowing us to see and hear them. We were able to see our grandson, Liam, on his birthday last week. Jacqueline made him blueberry pancakes for breakfast, then she and Evan surprised him when they picked him up from Italian preschool with a new bike (photo below). He was EXCITED!
Technology does help us communicate and stay connected with others. There is a lot of good that comes with Skype, email, Instagram, Facebook, etc. But there are limits. There are times when being face to face with someone is so much better.
Sometimes what is needed is a hug, a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold, or just having someone sit with us whether they say anything or not. Sometimes we just need to be in the presence of another human being.
Our lives are hectic and making time to physically be with others can be a challenge. But it is a challenge we need to face. We need to guard against becoming so dependent on technology that we give up actually being with one another.
Jesus made the greatest impact on those He spent the most time with – His disciples. They were the ones He entrusted with His mission as He ascended to the Father.
In our families, Sunday School classes, neighborhoods, and other groups – let’s listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice. When a name is on your mind or heart, often it is His way of telling us to check on them. So listen carefully. More importantly, do something when He speaks. Try connecting with them. It may be that email, texting, or some other modern way of communicating is enough. Then again, in some instances it may that a personal, face to face contact is what’s really needed. Listen to the Spirit and He will guide you.
I smiled as Liam told me about his big day. But I would have enjoyed giving a big hug even more. Technology cannot replace that.
Pastor Steve Hogg
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