Sacred Time

A teenager became tired of reading bedtime stories to his little sister. He decided to record several of her favorites on the computer and 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 replied, “No. It’s not great. It doesn’t have a lap to sit in.”

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

Years 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 palms—completely oblivious to the friends right in front of them. It made me sad. Unfortunately, I see this all the time today, even among adults.

Today, may you and I cherish those moments when we can be face-to-face with friends and loved ones and experience real presence. And may we never forget—this time together is a gift. It is indeed sacred time.

Let us pray:  God of Hope, thank you for the people 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.