I just recently was able to renew my driver license online. Although it was really nice not having to go down to the DPS office and wait, I couldn’t help thinking about all the things that have started to separate us from human interaction.

You no longer have to go to department stores; you can just order what you want online. You don’t even have to talk to anyone when you go to the grocery store. With the self checkout line, you don’t have to talk to a cashier. Drive-thru windows and internet shopping are designed to make our lives easier, but they are also taking away our interaction with each other.

Unfortunately, many of us take this same attitude and apply it to church.

We slip in – talking to as few people as possible – and find a pew that will allow a quick getaway. As soon as the closing prayer is over, we make a dash to the car.

I heard a quote the other day which seems to capture the attitude many of us have.

To live above with those we love –
That will be grace and glory.
To live below with those we know –
Now, that’s a different story!

This lifestyle may sound appealing, but it is not the lifestyle we are called to live as Christians. One of the greatest commands we are given is to love one another. How can we do that if we refuse to interact with one another? How can our good works be a light to the world if we refuse to let the world see them?

One purpose for gathering together on Sunday morning is so that we may encourage each other, but how can we do that if we don’t even talk with each other?

Even though it may not always be convenient and means stepping out of our comfort zone, we need to slow down and start sharing our lives with others. So talk to the cashier at the grocery store. Don’t worry about slipping out of church so quickly.

Make an effort to love one another and to let our lives be a light to those we meet.

Luke Bower
Baker Heights church bulletin

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