Sorry, But There Isn't an 'App' for that...

With all the gadgets available to keep us connected, I've noticed some irony in how the potential to become less connected seems to be growing as we are immersed into an ever-expanding techno-dependent world. From our heads being glued to our cellphones while tapping away on our iPads and "dvr-ing" our favorite upcoming shows on our 1080p HD tvs - to hours of Facebooking, Twittering and pinning pics and recipes on Pinterest (this as you know, is only scratching the surface). Is it any wonder how we can possibly find time to spend one on one with our own families? What about old-fashioned face time with our friends - you know, like, in 'person'? Sorry, but there isn't an 'app' for that.

With so much of the world available at our fingertips, we're running a big risk of losing the ability to personally communicate with people, hold real conversations with genuine interest - which builds real foundations toward sustaining valuable and long-lasting relationships with friends and family - and God. We now have online social networks to connect us with our friends and families. How many times have you texted your kid or spouse to ask them a question - instead of walking into the next room to ask them in person? Have you ever 'shared' something online when you might should have told your family (in person) first? 

We have availability to every translation of the Holy bible via our computers, laptops, tablets, cellphones and e-readers. We have dozens of channels on our cable networks and satellite carriers dedicated to Christian programming, scores of online churches ready to share the Good News while we sit in our dimly lit rooms staring at the computer screen. Again, nothing is 'wrong' with these things in and of themselves. But where do you draw the line? When do you really take time to connect with people, in person? There's no app for this either. 

By comparison, I found myself deeply and genuinely satisfied in uplifting worship and bible study with those who had walked (not driven) miles just to hear the Word of God from the only person (a pastor) they knew who actually owned a Holy bible. Gladly walked, rain or shine to fellowship with other brothers and sisters in Christ, and excited with anticipation to do so. Surely this is no accident.

After having spent some time in fellowship and worshiping with wonderful people from other 'developing' countries - those we tend to view as less fortunate than ourselves - I've become painfully aware of just how disconnected we are despite our being smothered in technology intended to keep us connected. People who live in mud and stick shacks. No electricity, no running water - yet - richly blessed in their relationships with our God and with each other as neighbors and friends. It's a stark contrast to what I can observe in my life and lives around me. In this picture, who is really the less fortunate one? Some of the most memorable moments in my life are having spent time with children and their parents and their teachers and pastors in parts of the world where the only thing they have in their lives is Jesus Christ. Worshiping with them was life-changing. Such genuine praise, joy and thanksgiving. Such humbleness and purpose free from the shiny world of distraction. Lives and worship services filled with the strong presence of the Holy Spirit. How blessed I am to have experienced this. How blessed I am to have this on my heart to share with you; it motivates me to pray for God's guidance to a path free from distraction and free to pursue His purposes for me with or without the help of a techno-gadget.

So, just how connected are we to our Savior Jesus Christ? This isn't a question with a hint of intended accusation - no - instead - it's more of a question intended to have us really think of our priorities. 

Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (NASB)

 Being a typical 'dude', I can't deny my attraction to the latest flat screen tv, high-def cell phones, computers and tablets. (I'm not really a gamer - but I assure you, there is no shortage of techno-distractions for me either). My point isn't necessarily that gadgets are bad. Actually, they can enhance productivity and provide entertainment too. For those who cannot physically get up and go on their own, technology can be a real blessing. But, if you find yourself totally absorbed in techno-culture while your relationships with friends, family and, more importantly, God deteriorate... then you might be a redneck. WHAT? Just making sure you're paying attention. Are you? If you've read this far without sending a text or answering your phone, I applaud you! But seriously.... so you have all the latest and greatest gadgets... you can watch any show you want whenever you want; you can make calls all over the world for almost nothing, if not for free; you can take a picture of your dog sleeping and post it on every website on the internet with one click of a button -- but how about your prayer life? How's your bible study coming along? How's things between you and our Creator?

Note that as I write this, it's been three days since I purchased a new iPad. It took a few years for me to decide to get one. And due to some unanticipated insurance money to replace some lost items, I found myself in the unique position to justify and pay for the expense. My prayer is that I use this gadget wisely. To enhance and grow my connections - not distract me from being really connected. I thank God that these questions have been placed on my heart. His timing is perfect. So as I ask myself - I thought I'd offer you the chance to ask yourself too....Just how 'really connected' are you? Sorry, but there isn't an 'app' for real connection.

"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?" - Mark 8: 36 (NASB)