Confused Communication

Communication is the key in any and all relationships.

In my parents' early years of romantic interest, they had three "convenient" options for communicating with one another.

Face-to-face conversation, hand-written letters, and telephone calls.

In an era where nationwide calling plans and the internet were not even vague ideas, my mom and dad developed an intimate relationship while living thousands of miles apart.

Beyond romantic relationships, it is interesting to observe our generation and the way we communicate with one another.

Phone calls have taken the back seat to text messages.
Hand-written letters are replaced by email and emails are replaced by Facebook messages.
When it comes time to talk to someone face-to-face, are we competent anymore?

I am not going to deny that there positive aspects of the internet, cell-phones, and cell-phones with the internet. But, it seems like we've taken these good things too far and may be missing out on the best thing. Intimate, honest, open relationships.

Communication starts a relationship.
Communication sustains a relationship.
Communication stops a relationship.

Lately, I've been reading the gospel of John. This week I've been sitting with Jesus, reading chapter 15. In verse 15, Jesus says "No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."

Jesus did not write letters inviting 12 guys to follow Him.
Jesus did not write any books of the Bible.
Jesus did not send text-messages to invite sinners to dinner.

Jesus did walk up to the tax collector's table and look him in the eye.
Jesus did go to the dock and talk to the fishermen.
Jesus did walk to the well in the hot sun to talk to an adulterous woman.

The way Jesus communicated significantly changed the way human beings related to the God of the Universe. Instead of being servants, Jesus communicated a sweet message that we are now his friends. To keep the friendship alive, we can communicate with Him anytime, anywhere.

I fear the more convenient methods of communication are adversely affecting the life-giving relationship we get to have with God.