Sacred Time

Some time ago, I heard about a teenager who became tired of reading bedtime stories to his little sister. He decided to record several of her favorite stories on the computer, and he told her, “Now you can hear your stories anytime you want. Isn’t that great? Just press the button.” She looked at the machine for a moment and then replied, “No. It’s not great. It doesn’t have a lap to sit in.”

It is so true! Technology is a blessing in so many ways. It allows us to get back in touch with long-lost friends and to stay in touch over great distances. But it is no substitute for human contact. I am reminded that God sent Jesus in flesh, to walk with people, to eat with them, to touch them and heal them.

Not long ago I saw a group of teenagers at a local restaurant. They were out to dinner as a group, but I noticed that every single one of them was looking at their phones. They were completely engrossed in the little screen in their palm, and completely oblivious to the friends that were right in front of them. This was sad to me.

Today, may we cherish those moments when we can be face to face with friends and loved ones and experience human presence. When we have those opportunities, may we set aside our technology, and enjoy the people we are with. And, may we remember that it is sacred time.

Let us pray: God of Hope, thank you for the people that you have brought into our lives – neighbors, friends, family, and others who walk the journey with us. Thank you for moments of laughter, for dinners and conversations shared, for hugs and smiles, and for the way the eyes speak deeper than words. Help us to cherish these people and these moments. We pray also for family and friends who are far away. May your Spirit blow fresh into each of our lives this day. Amen.