Desperately Seeking Connection

 God created us for relationship with Him and with other human beings. Even the avowed introvert (like me) needs friends, community, and meaningful interaction. While on-line ministry enables us to pray for one another across distances, nothing can replace face-to-face connection–an element sadly missing in today's world.

Fifty years ago we were connected geographically to friends and family. Our relatives lived within traveling–often walking–distance. Our churches and schools and businesses were in our neighborhoods, but as travel became easier and cheaper, our world expanded. Educational and job opportunities carried us far from our roots. As families were separated by long distances, maintaining connection became more difficult. Still, before the advent of the computer and the world wide web, we kept in touch by telephone and snail-mail.

 

Modern technology for all of its benefits has caused more isolation. Texting and messaging, while facilitating information exchange, actually impede meaningful communication.  Social media is but a feeble attempt to remedy the disconnect many feel. We acquire hundreds of "friends" who wouldn't know us if they passed us on the street. Meaningful conversation has been replaced by superficial exchanges masquerading as communication. Instead of, "What are you thinking? What do you believe? Who are you?", we ask, "What are you doing? Who are you with? What are you eating?”

Even before 2020, we were desperately seeking connection but the covid pandemic has intensified our need. Finding a small group–a Bible study, a friend group, support group, or shepherding group–even if it must be on Zoom–can meet this need. Real communication involves truths--getting beyond the veneers and facades to a level where we share our basic humanity.