Reclaiming Social MediaSample

Searching for Connection

Social media is powerful because of one critical desire all human beings share: the need for connection.

Anytime the red notification badge flashes on Facebook, we get a feeling of validation—that we belong and are connected to people. Social media was built to solve our need for connection.

There’s just one problem. This digital connection does not replace in-person connection.

What we are experiencing with digital connection is the transfer of information across pixels on a screen. It does not replace conversation and showing up with people. 

We’re “connecting” without doing the messy work of being with people.

Being with people when they are hurting, stressed, or dealing with insecurities can be messy. In those moments, we come face-to-face with the unfortunate parts of the human experience. It’s much easier to handle these emotions at a distance.

But Jesus understood that true connection happens when you are with people—in their pain, suffering, and even joy.  

Much of Jesus’ ministry was showing up for people. He would travel with His disciples, stay in people’s homes, and bring the Kingdom of God directly to people.

Here’s a convicting truth: we cannot fully live out all that God has for us by engaging with people at a distance. 

We are to meet people’s need for connection by offering the gift of presence, just as Jesus did. 

Today, pray that God would open you up to providing the gift of presence with people. Also pray that your social media use would not satisfy your need for connection, but that you would learn to sit with people face-to-face more. 

In an age where we’re diving deeper into our technology, showing up in person communicates much more. May we be people who can actually be with people.