So many devices, so little time

Ringtones and beeps and pings—oh my! Too many electronic signals scramble the nerves.

We weary of relentless emails and tweets, texts and updates.

We scratch our heads over new programs and apps for our varied devices.

We research a new appliance, bring it home, then battle “feature-creep” when we all we really want to do is:

• record that show
• wash our clothes
• make a call

Lord of Innovations, thank you for giving us brains and ingenuity.

Thank you for technology’s upside. (Remind us there is an upside.)

Thank you for mentors and podcasts and online tutorials. For classes and colleagues.

We believe in learning.

We know that steep learning curves invite us into Your grace, which heartens and strengthens us.

We believe in applying ourselves. We even believe in mastery—at least as a concept.

But today, we wish life were simpler

Jesus, was it ever dizzying to stay abreast of all those midrash additions local rabbis made to Torah?

When you withdrew to the hills, was it ever due to compassion fatigue?

On a tired day, would you have enjoyed using a GPS while traveling, town to town?

We need to recharge, and not just our devices! So we come to you now, the ultimate power source. You give us free will, and when we ask for help, you intervene. You never leave us to our own devices.

Help us live at the pace we can still hear your voice above distractions and daily interactions.

Help us prioritize today’s tasks, and, if need be, patiently absorb and practice new skills, then create a sane plan for further study.

Above all, help us remember we have the mind of Christ. And grace: sustainable, ever-renewable grace.

Thank you for all the creative ways we can reach you, right now. And that always, always, you are reaching for us.

NOTE: Friends, I will be scaling back on posts over the summer. Look for one or two per month in your Inbox.

Oh, and if you have a moment? Let me know if you’d enjoy an occasional post like this one. Thanks!