Slowing Down...

I have come to grips with the reality that I am a bit technology challenged. I don't think this is because of inability, but rather passive aggressive hostility. It seems to me we have bought into the perception that technology saves us time, thus making life easier. Yet, is this the case? Obviously there are advantages. My cell-phone is a "necessity" when I make my monthy sojourn to the Costco and Trader Joes in Fresno. Frequent calls to Sheri while I am shopping assure that I don't purchase the wrong item. My question is: "Have we become so dependent on our cell-phones, I-phones and computers that they are more of a liability than asset?" We seem to never be able to free ourselves from their grip on our lives; not even on vacation. I remember the days when vacations were truly an escape from the routine of daily life. Not so anymore. It seems to me we can never escape from email, texting, twittering and facebook, even when away. I intentionally don't have an I-phone for this reason. Even so, I find myself mildly dreading a return to reality from vacation because I know a huge amount of time will be spent sifting through and answering email upon my return to the office. My point in all of this is that it seems to me we have become so attached to technology (and the drone and buzz it generates in our minds) that we have forgotten how to rest, be still, clear our thoughts and seek God. This is a necessary discipline if we are to hear God's voice (especially through Scripture) and we are to grow spiritually. Psalm 46:10 reminds us, "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." I fully understand that technology is hear to stay. But, I want to encourage all of us to not let it hijack our attention at the expense of seeking God.
​Keep the faith,
Pastor Tony