At first, I didn't get it. Plus I had an old-school phone that made texting very annoying and time consuming. But a few months ago, I upgraded to a relatively modern phone (still no phone Internet - I'm an old fashioned, cheap soul), and started texting. Then, I started to understand the appeal.
What I think is so appealing about texting is that it takes so little time. Texting is convenient. It's less trouble than a phone call, especially if you are suspicious that the person you are talking to is unable to currently have a phone conversation. It's casual, noncommittal, and somewhat impersonal.
Impersonal? Have we become a culture obsessed with impersonal interpersonal communication?!
Ummmm, why yes we have.
I think about myself on so many days, with my rushed quiet time with God. Even though I usually have about 30 minutes, do I say anything really meaningful to Him? Is my dialogue one-sided, or a conversation, a meeting of minds? Or is it my personal diatribe, requests for help, requests to fulfill my desires? Do I truly try to listen to what God is trying to tell me?
Back to the texting phenomenon...why do we sometimes not return text messages from our friends? It's my personal pet peeve. If we are so obsessed with noncommittal, minimally time consuming, impersonal communication, why can't we answer?
Another question: do I respond to God's messages to me?
What would I hear, if I would slow down long enough to hear God's texts to me?
"I love you. You are beautiful."
"I've given you grace. Stop struggling and working so hard. "
"I will give you rest, come to me."
"I am more than enough for your every need."
I don't know about you, but I need to slow down and listen. Listen to what God is saying to me, through personal revelation, the world, and other believers are teaching me. And I need to respond...communication is a two-way street.
Communication is supposed to be personal and meaningful, with two listening parties. Let's change things back to the way they are supposed to be.
Disclaimer: Please do not interpret this post that I don't want you to text me :). I'm just commenting on parallel I see between the impersonal nature of texting and our sometimes one sided communication with God.
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