The day was bland, filled with the regular routine that I navigated on autopilot. I scrolled listlessly through my Facebook feed.
I confess, I enjoy social media. I like to hear what friends are up to, laugh at humorous comments, celebrate successes and view photos of growing kiddos. It’s a fascinating study in human behavior and satisfies my “people watching” fix without having to sit in an airport for six hours.
My temporary boredom provoked a hilarious thought. What would it be like if preschoolers had Facebook pages? What if my five year old posted the same things adults do throughout the day?
And then I couldn’t stop myself…
How hilarious would that be?!
Now, I know social media gets slammed for the overshare. Do I really need to know what you had for breakfast? Probably not, but it is the most important meal of the day, so I support your need to communicate this information.
For stay at home moms, social media provides a life raft to humankind. Let’s face it, this mama thing can be isolating. Surrounded by little people, diapers and empty coffee cups, devoid of adult conversation, it’s an opportunity to connect and feel a part of the big, crazy world.
As I sat, pondering the value of social media, I couldn’t help but wonder if Jesus would be on Facebook. I like to think he would.
In fact, I’m sure some of his posts would be like this:
OK- that last one made me snort coffee through my nose.
But there is a sobering trend that is growing on social media. What started as a way to connect, support and encourage has become a weapon capable of ruining a life within a viral day. We have swiftly developed the tendency to play judge, jury and executioner all based on a few simple keystrokes. There is no more healthy debate of opinions, rather savage attacks and harsh criticism without all the facts.
It frightens me. My preteen is on the edge of wading into this abyss. By the time my five year old arrives, I wonder what the collateral damage will be.
I feel certain Jesus would weigh in:
It’s a sobering post. Powerful. It made me wish Jesus really was on Facebook, until I realized, he is.
“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. ” John 14:12
We are Jesus. Not just on Facebook and social media but everyday, in the world. It’s sobering. Powerful. Exciting. Amazing. Incredible. Inspiring. Life impacting. World changing. Bold!
And we are it. Share the love.
I hope this “Devo on the Go” made you laugh but also I pray it touches you and sparks a desire to “love first.” I read and enjoy all of your comments so post below! Please click share and let’s share the love!
Love this one! So very true that God is always with us! Through social media, through alone times in the car, at bed at night, at the dinner table and throughout every step of our day. Whether fantastic, energetic and fulfilling or the most of disappointing, terrifying and frustratingly draining days, He is always there! Knowing that can keep us going. And trying to remember that our children have some of the cutest thoughts, feelings and desires of their own just helps to get through the rest of each day! They are not ALL us, and we are not ALL them, but they are each their own little person, growing up in this world too! Learning and thriving every single day. And when they are FAST asleep peaceful at the end of each night, we can remember the day, and thank God for allowing us the opportunity to learn how to handle situations better the next time, show more care and kindness the next time, be less dramatic, angry or serious the next time, and remember in all cases to show love and compassion. This they will see and feel more than anything else.
Love and compassion – so true!!
Well said Jennifer. You are a very funny gal!
You get me! You really get me!! Thanks Bob!
jen I always try to put positive things on my page. cause I know Jesus is reading it too. I would never want to do anything to break his heart. He is such a wonderful father and worthy to be praised. and if I can put one thing on my page, that can touch someones life to glorify him. so they can feel closer to him. Then half the mile stone to him is so much better.
Beautifully said Dawn!