We are surrounded by media. 

A constant flow of images into our lives. Pictures.

I’m a frequent contributor.  I tweet about work. I use Instagram to post updates on my family. I have two Facebook pages- one for work and one for personal use.  

And social media is useful for updates. I enjoy seeing pictures of family and friends.

But it’s one dimensional.

A close friend recently surprised me with some sad news about his marriage. We were out for a long-overdue lunch when he asked me for prayer, confessing that he and his wife were struggling mightily. I was stunned- as there had been no evidence. He had been posting pictures of his smiling family and their fun activities on a constant, continual basis. 

It wasn’t until we had gotten into a quiet, safe environment that he asked me for prayer.

Social media images present the best parts of our lives. Fun activities. Loving families. Perfect children.  It doesn’t show pain. Stress. Imperfection. 

We show the world what we want them to see about our lives. We are fearful of being real- scared that transparency will show weakness.

How can we get past the superficial?

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17

Snapshots of our lives are no substitute for real engagement with others.  

 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14 

Love is an investment. If we are to love others, it means a level of engagement in others that goes beyond the superficial. 

Call someone you haven’t seen in a while. Check in on your elderly neighbor.  Ask your fellow church member who always sits behind you to go to lunch. Invite friends into your home. 

Ask someone how they are doing- and mean it.

Love is a contact sport. 

Pray for me to be more engaged in the lives of others. I want to be more aware of opportunities to listen and help. 

And let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.