It is intimacy that builds a relationship and makes a difference.

The other night Clay and I went out for dinner and our conversation, as it often does, went into a crazy tangent about the future. Like a movie, we were describing a world where people lived alone in identical homes, living identical lives, only connecting with each other through virtual reality. I don’t remember exactly how it began, but I’m sure it all started with current events and the trends we see in society.

Then i was reminded of or conversation in today’s devotion, chapter 3 Being Real Requires Community. “It just seems like the more technologically connected we get in this age, the less connected we really are.” At this time, technology has become the primary way people interact. More and more people are working and attending school remotely through zoom meetings. With so many social restrictions, more and more young people are turning to websites to meet people. We are separated by plexiglass and hiding behind masks.

These things may be put in place to protect us from a virus, but I can see how some of these tactics may be cost effective and convenient, and could work their way into a new norm even later

The concern here is we never really connect. I mean in a real, deep level. I’m talking about seeing so deep into someone’s eyes, that you see their soul. Sharing intimate thoughts and feelings that only seem to happen over a cup of coffee or glass of wine. A touch, whether it be reaching over to hold a hand, pat a back, a high five, or a hug. Seeing someone daily; learning their mannerisms and habits, and recognizing when something has changed.

Intimacy

Intimacy. I don’t just mean with a spouse, but also a coworker, teacher and student, or the regular at the coffee shop. The small group at church, the teammates in the locker room, the places in the community where we share something in common. It is the intimacy that builds a relationship, that makes a difference.

We were not designed to live in isolation. We are all created to give a piece of ourselves to others. An intimate and real connection with another person can change someone forever. I have been fortunate enough to know this can even happen with a complete stranger over a brief encounter if we are real and honest. But I also think it is most probable in face to face situations, where we can expose ourselves as who we are, listen attentively, and show respect, grace, and humility.

Prayer

Lord, if I didn’t have the knowledge of you being in control, and your ability to use this for good and your will, I would be afraid. I know, as written in Isaiah 43, that you will make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Lord, I pray for those that are isolated-physically with only virtual connections, as well as emotionally, living in a fakebook world. Help us connect to one another on a deeper, spiritual level. Show us where we need others, and where others need us. There is so much division in society. Expose our feelings so we can connect at a level of understanding. I pray the restrictions on our communities leave no harmful affects, and that you use your power for our benefit and growth. In Jesus name, Amen.