Meditation on "It's Time" #5

It’s Time #5

Most cell phones allow us to text message each other. Some of us are more used to that than others. Some of us are resisting this persistent march of technology into our lives, thinking perhaps our privacy is even more violated. Others are all over texting, framing this issue not as privacy, but of connection. And we know we need and deserve more connection.

In Japan, the culture has already shifted as e mailing is considered old style and “so last year.” Email is used only for long and wordy documents. Business is conducted in text messaging. Letters are written in it. And the code is catching on. LOL and BFF are recognized the world over. Think of it—it’s quicker, simpler, and except for contracts and books, highly functional.

This weekend, several of the UNO Campus Ministry Team will spend a very long day at Camp Fontanelle. We determined we need a day of fun and appreciating each other. We will walk the maze and labyrinth, work on team building on a low ropes course, spend time meditating and relaxing in a gazebo, hike, climb trees (a’la rock wall climbing to a 30’) and find cerebral and spiritual ways to deepen our connections. Texting will not give us that connection, being together, holding our lives in common, will. Those who developed conflicts have asked for photos. I plan to take a camera, of course, and we’ll post good photos on our website. And of course, we’ll eat together, and that will be fabulous.

The need and responsibility of community is to build up. Building up is a characteristic of all communities and is well recognized. For example, yesterday’s Service Learning Academy 101 class contained a list of ways to reinforce learning. Contained in the highest category was celebration and honoring around the project. Building up is an intentional way to expand connections and create long lasting impact. This is a clear message of scripture. The New Testament calls it “edify” or “build up.”

I Corinthians 10:
23“All things are lawful,” but not all things are beneficial. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. 24Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other.

This idea is mirrored in letters often attributed to Paul and the author of Acts (probably Luke’s author) in a number of other places (1 Cor. 14.4; Galatians 2:18 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Acts 20:32)

Building up is needed and we’re off to do it. We expect forge some kind of tighter, more permanent bonds with memories. We will gain enjoyment. Those really are the goals.

If you’ve been hiding in a cave or searching through unhealthy relationships, I commend the idea of “building up” to you. Who and how will you do that today? Can you expand your usually list of folks who need it?

And, of course, can you text it?