One person said, “You are my Facebook friend.” The response was: “Is it so?” Both dived into Facebook and realised they had been friends for a decade. Friends on social media but could not recognise each other when face-to-face. In the digital world, there is an Illusion of Connection. They could be friendly people, but not friends. Most studies point out that increased engagement in the Digital world leads to increased loneliness. Sadly, a few even attempt suicide.
Device to device: With the technology of the Internet and smartphones, there is only a connection between one smartphone and one or two other smartphones. The people who own the phones are not connected. The message, as a text, flyer, photo, video or link, is sent. It would appear in the gadget of the receiver. Nevertheless, it may not be read, seen or watched. There is a sense of satisfaction that the message was sent to so many people’s gadgets, but it is like throwing it all in a trash bin.
Mind to mind: There is a transfer of information. However, such information is short-lived. The seeds that fell on the rocky ground showed scope, but dried off as roots could not go deeper. (Matthew 13:20) People could watch or listen, but may even say the message is good, but do not apply the knowledge, and share with others meaningfully.
Heroic exaggeration: Most social media posts display the best, greatest, and excellent experiences and events of life. Those who see the post should like, give a thumbs-up sign, or even applaud those who post. Such posts invite sarcasm, cynicism, and even envy. A few posts are to gain sympathy, especially when sick or going through tough times.
Heart to heart: Christian Fellowship provides joyful, trustworthy, honourable, and dynamic connections. Disciples connect with others and guide them out of darkness to marvellous light. (I Peter 2:9) While the world suffers due to trust deficit and relevance deficit, the church provides a safe, nurturing haven of spiritually enlightening, emotionally stable, and edifying environment.
Do I enjoy a real connection with God, family and the local church?