Techno Christian

Is social networks and texting becoming the new way of sharing personal and private information with friends and family?

This is a question that has been on my mind for months or even a year now, sometimes a rather heavy thought. There have been situations in life that I have watched being played out for the entire world to see. Have we become so uncensored that nothing is held back anymore? Just because the typed word does not get a verbal response heard does not mean that it is not received. Sometimes I think because we don’t hear somebody actually respond with a voice; we feel it is okay to say anything or everything we desire. Maybe I’m old school here, but I do believe there is something to be said for personal connections in person. Oh I understand that sometimes miles separate us from an individual and the social network sites or texting is how communication is done. However, if the phone works for texting guess what else it works for: CALLING! Okay I can even give you a little more technology on this one. The computer makes it possible to video chat with a friend or family member. I live a distance from my entire extended family, so I do understand the helpfulness of the social networks and texting. It is nice to keep up to date with pictures of growing children or loved friends and family. However, where does that line get drawn as to what personal information we share? The exciting or even life-altering times during our life are important to share. However, sometimes the decision to share them in a very non-personal way is made.  The lack of personal touch is now the reality of our lives. Have we lost the sensitivity that was given to us in order to reach and touch people on a deeper level?

Technology has seemed to replace human contact in a lot of ways. Phone calls aren’t made as much because text messaging is so much easier and quicker. Emails are sent instead of a hand-written letter. A like button is hit to show someone you accept what they are posting. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoy having these things to help keep in touch with individuals whom I no longer am able to see because of distance. Nevertheless, there seems to be something that is still bothering me. What I personally have an issue with is that we seem to be losing touch with what it means to live a Christian life IN FRONT of people.

“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.  No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” ~ Matthew 5:13-16

Those scriptures sure say a lot but not specific on this topic. It is on our live in general. Since social networks and texting has become a general way of life, don’t you think that it would apply to this area now too?

My challenge for you…What does it mean to shine your light in the world we live in now? Are you careful what you post online and what you say? Does what you say shine the light of God? Are you salt to those you know and adding flavor to their lives? Even though we live in a technology-driven society, we STILL must know what it means to be a Christian in it. Do you rely solely on social media or texting to share intimate information? I challenge you to think BEFORE you post something online and check to see if it shines your light. Are you hiding behind the computer? Call to talk to a friend instead of texting. Let them hear your voice! A person can feel a smile on your face within the tone of your voice. Give it a try, I dare you!