Connectivity
Apparently, I needed a lesson in connectivity this week. The reliability of my Toshiba laptop and all software applications plus our internet connection have been blessedly reliable…until this week. Frustrating and time consuming are the least objectionable descriptive adjectives that come to mind. My prayers took on a new urgency and fortunately, most of my computer issues have been resolved as of this writing. Thank you, Lord!
Not surprisingly, the theme of being connected or interconnected has stuck with me. While losing computer connectivity can be a scary aggravation, I began to reflect on how much more serious it is to feel emotionally, physically or spiritually disconnected. In spite of (and sometimes because of!) the myriad ways we can stay in touch these days, we can end up feeling more out of touch with others.
Like our computers and cell phones, might each of us benefit from a simple “restart” or even a “hard reset” to our faith connection? For me, this will include less screen time and more prayer time. Less social media, more in-person (albeit mostly masked) socializing. Less texting but more phone call check-ins and hand-written notes. Perhaps a Bible study or retreat? How about prioritizing Mass attendance in person? Please feel free to comment below to suggest more ways to spiritually reconnect!
As we celebrate the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time this weekend, we will hear a familiar reading from First Corinthians. This is a great reminder for me of our spiritual interconnectivity and how desperately it is needed. Each of us has a unique and special role to fulfill in the Body of Christ, his Church. We rely on each other to make a whole. Each of us has strengths and weaknesses. Your strength can help another in her weakness. Another’s gift blesses you in time of need. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all the parts share its joy. (1 Cor 12:26)
I pray we all learn to rely more on our Greatest Strength through the gift of his church. And I thank God for each one of you.
