Thursday, February 16, 2012

Reflection of time

So often throughout the day, something cool will happen in a particular situation, or an amazing conversation takes place, or maybe God just shows up to just get my attention. These experiences get me thinking that I should share with others, what God is doing in my life, and how He can be present in theirs. In today’s world of social media, it’s possible to do just that but I find myself still – being inconsistent in posting on my blog, without sharing with you how God is moving in my life.

I imagine this is normal for most people who do not make a living by writing or spending their days on the various media outlets we have access to. We all have something special to share, but all too often we share our thoughts and prayers only as a passing comment on Facebook or we squeeze our reflections into less than 140 characters on Twitter. While social media keeps us in touch with the world around us, I am afraid it also degrades the depth and true meaning of what’s happening within each of our lives and what it might mean to others. We share, but then just move on.

We might be the ones posting or maybe the ones reading these posts, but I don’t think any of us really contemplates the experience or the wisdom God wants us to take from the time He gives us each day. For every comment or any Tweet that gets posted, are we truly reflecting on our lives in the Lord, or do we just want to be heard? As we share, are we learning from the experiences that God offers to us each day? Are we ever really quiet enough to hear God’s words and guidance for our lives?

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. Revelation 3:20

I am no social expert or social media enthusiast… I am just someone who is scared for the youth, my children, and this next generation. We have become more impulsive and hasty in our words and communication. Think for a moment, when was the last time you picked up the phone and had an actual conversation with someone instead of just texting? More importantly, when was the last time you sat still for a moment and had an actual conversation with God? He commands us:

Be still, and know that I am God… Psalm 46:10

We are putting God aside and rushing through every aspect of our lives. We put our responsibilities on hold to post a comment. We take time away from our prayer life to tweet. How far have we gone from what God desires for our lives? Put down the iPad. Turn off the cell phone, and log off Facebook for a minute so you can listen to what God has to say.