Face Time

Conversation is becoming a lost art. Technology makes it so easy to communicate that we become accustomed to lazy forms of messaging. Instead of meeting a friend for tea, we send a text. Instead of dropping into an office to ask a question, we hide our request behind an email. Instead of working out a disagreement with a friend, we write an anonymous rant in a blog comment.

While digital communication, social media, and even snail mail are helpful in connecting us with others, especially those far away, they lack the personal, satisfying, impacting effect of a face-to-face conversation complete with questions, answers, smiles, laughter, tears, and even touch.

This is a great loss. One of the essential parts of being human is our capacity for connection. We are made in the image of a triune God, which is to say a relational God. To reflect His image is to live in communion with and response to our fellow image bearers. Texts and emails and even videoconferencing can bring us only so close to that kind of relationship. Sooner or later we need to have a direct connection.

If we are to live into God’s fullness for us and be skilled disciplers, we must pursue the art of conversation. Through your example, teach your children to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry” (James 1:19). Let your dinner table be the training grounds for graciousness and consideration.

His Promises

For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

A friend is always loyal,

and a brother is born to help in time of need.