The world-wide, ever-increasing pace of life in general — encouraged by the onset of technical advances which allow for immediate access and interaction with others through a simple phone device — is drastically changing our lives.

Social media extend and multiply that access, allowing us to be recognized personally around the world. Although some of it can be helpful, most of it is surface recognition that has little depth or meaning, especially when it interrupts a real social get-together, such as a business meeting, a meal, or a family gathering.

But lately, I've noticed an increase in comments from people looking for respite from the faster pace of life, all of them wishing that it would slow down. However, we are unwittingly caught up in it. Texting is so much faster and cheaper than phoning. Let's confirm that pickup time now … oh, and what are you wearing? See how well it works? No voice contact required.

No matter how young and/or technically capable we are, we can process only so much information in depth at one time.

Back in the last century, when our teenagers were studying, they frequently tried to convince us, their parents, that they were perfectly capable of doing their homework while tuned in to their favourite radio station. Thankfully, we eventually won out. Studies have shown that the human brain is better able to absorb, understand, and memorize information in peaceful surroundings. Taking information in is one thing; learning it is something else.

So, too, when our bodies and minds are quiet, we are better able to narrow the spiritual space between ourselves and God. He has told us, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10 NIV), and He will do the rest.

Luke 5:16 – But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. (NIV)

Mark 6:31b – [Jesus] said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." (NIV)

In light of this, let us all make an extra effort to find our own personal quiet place daily, to get away from the fast pace of life for some respite, and share some quiet time with God. If we use this time also to simply listen, He will take it from there.

Prayer: Dear Father Lord, we so badly need Your peace, yet we are increasingly filling every waking moment with information that we think is important, and sharing it technologically around the world with increasing speed. We ask You to show each one of us how to slow down and share more precious time alone with You. Thank You for hearing our prayers for a closer walk with You. Amen.

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About the author:

Deana Weyman <deana@sympatico.ca>
King City, Ontario, Canada
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