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Staying Connected in a Disconnected World

"With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the Lord." Numbers 12:8a

I write to you from Lustre, a small community in Northeast Montana.  I have the privilege of speaking six times over a three-day period at their Harvest Missions Program. It has been an interesting experience.

I’ve enjoyed visiting with the many farmers and trades people who reside in this area.  These folks are genuine and hardworking.  There are many positives to be viewed in the simple lifestyle you find in smaller communities. 

I’m reminded that face to face communication is very important to building relationships.  In this neck-of-the-woods front porches on homes are not just to add architectural value but where people actually gather to sit, relax, and share life’s experiences.  Folks here believe that Sunday gatherings of relatives and friends have more impact than watching three Sunday football games on television. 

God designed man for relationship.  He walked with Adam in the cool of the evening as they communicated.  Throughout scripture we see the importance of people communicating with God and with one another. "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Technology and modern culture seems to have placed efficiency over intimacy.  We utilize our cell phones, text messaging, modems, computers, emails, PDA’s, and internet to expedite communications but in reality they distance us from others.  It is almost like we are avoiding personal contact with others.  Picking up the phone to just chat with another person is almost a lost exercise.  

I’ve actually seen people text-messaging each other in the same room.  What has happened to direct interaction?  What are we thinking?  Where is the personal touch?  Many teens today are so caught up with their secret codes and electronics that they don’t know how to effectively communicate in spoken or written word. 

I recently heard that some heart physicians are actually recommending a booklet to cardiac patients about the medicinal value of getting hugs.   Apparently we now need our doctors to tell us that comforting another person is proper and necessary for good heath. 

The television program Good Morning America recently demonstrated two different robots that actually talk to people, provide hand shakes, and give hugs.  People are purchasing these machines to have companionship.

My friends, God made us for intimacy and communication.  Let’s not so isolate ourselves that we forget the power of the spoken word, the need for an encouraging hug or pat on the back, and the value of sharing our stories and testimonies.

We really need people like King Hezekiah who reminded people to not be afraid or discouraged. “He (King Hezekiah) appointed military officers over the people and assembled them before him in the square at the city gate and encouraged them with these words:  ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.’”  2 Chron.32:6-7

Have a great week and give someone a hug.  Jim