So good, Ross. Thank you for putting words to this. It’s funny, earlier in that passage you quoted in Matthew 13, this part really resonated with me yesterday which encapsulates (what I believe) you are saying:
“But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
Matthew 13:16-17
Blessed are our eyes as we see, our ears as we hear, and our hands as we do. May we participate more fully in the mystery (and adventure) of Jesus.
I’m reading your book a bit backwards as I just came across this first post after reading many of the recent ones. This is great and very convicting. You’ve hit the nail on the head as usual. A couple times while reading this, I thought about artificial intelligence and it’s effects on society. As it seemingly increases exponentially, what are your thoughts on the ramifications for community and the church? I’m hoping there will be a backlash and God will use that to drive people back into real communities and toward Christ.
Ha, reading my book backwards. That's funny. Yes, I think you're right on. I tend to think the tide will turn sooner than later. Similar to how the previous generation got really into unnatural/processed solutions to health and wellness--"low fat foods" and artificial sweeteners whereas now things are pushing back to "Whole Foods." Or maybe an even better example: when an entire generation became convinced that baby formula was better than breast-feeding...and then we "discovered" again that breastfeeding was actually pretty good for babies (go figure). Anyway, I think something similar may happen with all this online disembodiment. I feel like, sooner than later, people are going to slowly realize, "Maybe we should, like, exist in our bodies, form community in our neighborhoods, work for the good of our actual neighbors, etc." But we shall see. At least I'm definitely feeling that way!
Ross, this post speaks to my soul today. You paint pictures with words so beautifully, and the invitation to Participate is enticing and accessible through your descriptions. Thank you for putting words to the deconstruction piece, and the need to drive rather than know all the parts. Such a fitting metaphor. I love your writing!
Absolutely brilliant. At the very least, I am grateful for technology that makes it possible for me to still soak in your wisdom from states away. So much truth here, truth that goes in and beyond the mind, resonating into the soul. It addresses the longing we all have, but most times cannot name. I feel as though I have become more aware of myself being halfway between the landscape -- not simply a tourist, but not yet knowing it fully without a roadmap. It is a growing and a knowing in part, becoming a little more familiar each day in eager anticipation of it soon becoming everything I know and am. Always encouraged and convicted by the words the Lord has given you. Thanks for sharing.
So good, Ross. Thank you for putting words to this. It’s funny, earlier in that passage you quoted in Matthew 13, this part really resonated with me yesterday which encapsulates (what I believe) you are saying:
“But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”
Matthew 13:16-17
Blessed are our eyes as we see, our ears as we hear, and our hands as we do. May we participate more fully in the mystery (and adventure) of Jesus.
Thanks Carter. Yes, this is deeply true. Well said.
I like your positive outlook Ross! We (especially I) need more in the world. I love your analogies as well. Thanks for sharing the Hope!!
I’m reading your book a bit backwards as I just came across this first post after reading many of the recent ones. This is great and very convicting. You’ve hit the nail on the head as usual. A couple times while reading this, I thought about artificial intelligence and it’s effects on society. As it seemingly increases exponentially, what are your thoughts on the ramifications for community and the church? I’m hoping there will be a backlash and God will use that to drive people back into real communities and toward Christ.
Ha, reading my book backwards. That's funny. Yes, I think you're right on. I tend to think the tide will turn sooner than later. Similar to how the previous generation got really into unnatural/processed solutions to health and wellness--"low fat foods" and artificial sweeteners whereas now things are pushing back to "Whole Foods." Or maybe an even better example: when an entire generation became convinced that baby formula was better than breast-feeding...and then we "discovered" again that breastfeeding was actually pretty good for babies (go figure). Anyway, I think something similar may happen with all this online disembodiment. I feel like, sooner than later, people are going to slowly realize, "Maybe we should, like, exist in our bodies, form community in our neighborhoods, work for the good of our actual neighbors, etc." But we shall see. At least I'm definitely feeling that way!
Ross, this post speaks to my soul today. You paint pictures with words so beautifully, and the invitation to Participate is enticing and accessible through your descriptions. Thank you for putting words to the deconstruction piece, and the need to drive rather than know all the parts. Such a fitting metaphor. I love your writing!
Oh wow, thanks Corrie. This means a lot coming from a real writer! Thank you for reading.
Absolutely brilliant. At the very least, I am grateful for technology that makes it possible for me to still soak in your wisdom from states away. So much truth here, truth that goes in and beyond the mind, resonating into the soul. It addresses the longing we all have, but most times cannot name. I feel as though I have become more aware of myself being halfway between the landscape -- not simply a tourist, but not yet knowing it fully without a roadmap. It is a growing and a knowing in part, becoming a little more familiar each day in eager anticipation of it soon becoming everything I know and am. Always encouraged and convicted by the words the Lord has given you. Thanks for sharing.
Janae! So great to hear from you. Thank you so much for these kind words. Really means a lot. Hope you are well!