Growing up in a small town, as I did, afforded our family many benefits. It wasn't just about our family, but a larger family co-existing in the sleepy hamlet. It meant being able to roam and explore with confidence. Where everyone knew each other and each child had others watching out for them - which didn't always work to our favor. Our parents knew we were causing trouble before we ever reached the front door for dinner.
Relationships among neighbors were close, trusting, and rewarding. At any given time, we could walk to a neighbor's house to play or enjoy cookies. I remember walking to the post office that also served as the postal worker's home. She was a pleasant, friendly lady who enjoyed serving. We would chat before I collected the mail and walked back home.
When it came to birthday celebrations, it was common for my parents to bring out a car full of my friends, making it a weekend event. Having my birthday land in the middle of summer, there was badminton, popsicles and other outdoor fun, abound.
As a teenager, I became a trusted sitter for the neighbor kids whose parents could go out knowing their children were in good hands. Great good resided in living the small town life back then where life was simpler. You took time to listen to the stories of your neighbors. There was intentional relationship building in a time of slowed paces. It was comfortable and free without much fighting or disagreement.
We were all created for relationship by God. We each have an innate need for interaction and human connection for that reason. Nowadays, many think that the most meaningful connection is found through the portal of social media. But it's actually tearing us apart, making us incapable of having the simplest of conversations and making new friends.
The other day I went food shopping and was stupefied by what I saw. People were engaged with their phones or plugged into ear buds as they strolled the aisles. Many had their heads down, maybe in hopes of avoiding eye contact. Strange how we have become intricately connected to technology - something that can never return to us what we desperately long for - relationship, acceptance, love, and life meaning.
Not only did God create us to be social beings, but His Word, the Bible is the written essence of interaction and relational intimacy. Brother to brother, husband to wife, grandparent to grandchild - it's all about connecting.
In fact, much of the Bible encourages us to communicate and engage in friendship with one another. One such example comes from a book called Hebrews, which says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another..." (Chapter 10, Verses 24-25)
No man or woman is an island, capable of thriving without human interaction. We were created for so much more than that. May we each be intentional in reaching out to others and connecting on a heart level.
Encouragement for the week:
My friend, as enjoyable or easy social media may be, it will never feed the greatest need of your heart. Your feminine heart requires more than the shallow sentiments social media offers.
If you are a Christian reading this, you know you were created for relationship and interaction with others. Be mindful of the traps that technology uses to isolate. Instead, have intention about interacting with others in person.
If you are not a Christian reading this, you can look for Jesus and you will find Him. You can find a special relationship and connection with Jesus. He waits to forge a lasting and intimate friendship with you. You can trust Him.
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