Disconnect to reconnect: Advent Day Eight 08/12/24
Welcome to week two of our Advent devotional series. As I sit here, typing out this post, I'm drawn to reflect on our relationship with technology. This topic resonates deeply with me because, like many of you, I've experienced both the connection and disconnection that our digital world brings.
I remember the morning ritual that used to define my days - reaching for my mobile before even whispering a morning prayer, letting social media shape my thoughts before God could speak to my heart. Whilst I've made progress by deleting social media apps, I still find myself caught in the web of endless notifications, emails, and digital distractions. Each ping and notification seems to whisper, "Look at me," when what my soul truly needs is to hear God's gentle voice saying, "Be still and know that I am God."
My journey with digital detoxing began three years ago during COVID really. Perhaps the most fruitful thing to come from this time. Overwhelmed by the constant noise of technology, I started what my friends and I now playfully call my 'incognito mode' - periods of intentional digital silence. Yes, it's challenging when most of our connections happen through screens. But something beautiful happens in these moments of digital silence: the world slows down, my thoughts become clearer, and most importantly, God's presence becomes more tangible. In the absence of notifications, I've found that prayer transforms from a scheduled task into a natural conversation with God.
This Advent season invites us to create sacred spaces in our digital desert. Together, let's explore how stepping away from our screens can open our hearts to the profound mystery of Christ's coming. After all, in a world that's constantly connected, perhaps the most radical act of faith is choosing to disconnect - not to isolate ourselves, but to connect more deeply with the One who came to be Emmanuel, God with us.
Understanding Our Starting Point
Scripture reminds us of the power of solitude and silence. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus withdraws to the desert for forty days, far from worldly distractions. This time of isolation transforms Him, strengthening Him for His ministry—showing us that we too must sometimes step away from life's distractions to hear God's voice.
St. Teresa of Avila beautifully captures this need for sacred silence: "In solitude God gives us His heart, and we give Him ours." Similarly, Thomas Merton, the modern Catholic writer, reflects: "We cannot find Him unless we know we need Him. We forget this need when we take our eyes off Him and let them wander among the distractions of the world."
These insights speak directly to our modern struggle with digital distraction. Just as Jesus found clarity and purpose in the desert's silence, we too can find spiritual renewal by creating our own "digital deserts." When we step away from the constant flow of information and entertainment, we create space for God to speak to our hearts. This isn't about completely abandoning technology—it's about finding a healthy balance that prioritises our spiritual well-being over digital convenience.
Making It Real: Practical Steps
Here are some practical ways for young Catholics to create meaningful digital boundaries during Advent:
- Make your room a mini-sanctuary - no mobiles during prayer time! Use this space for quiet reflection or praying the Rosary instead of endless TikTok scrolling.
- Use technology to help you unplug - sounds counterintuitive, right? Try apps like Hallow or Universalis for daily readings and set app timers for Instagram and Snapchat.
- Start a "Digital Vespers" routine - wind down an hour before bed with evening prayer instead of Netflix. Maybe listen to some Catholic lo-fi or worship music!
- Try "Offline Fridays" during the next two weeks of Advent
- When you feel the urge to check social media, try opening the Bible app instead. Better yet, keep a small prayer journal or Catholic devotional by your desk.
Remember, it's not about completely ditching your mobile - we know that's not realistic! It's about making small changes to create more time for God. Start with what feels manageable, be gentle with yourself, and celebrate those moments when you choose prayer over scrolling. Even the saints would have needed help managing their screen time! 😊
Today's Reflection
- How often do I reach for my mobile before reaching for God in prayer? Consider tracking your morning routine for the next few days to understand your patterns.
- What spiritual fruits have I noticed in moments when I've disconnected from technology? Think about times when being "unplugged" has led to deeper conversations with God or clearer spiritual insights.
- Which of my current digital habits most hinders my relationship with God? Reflect on specific apps, times of day, or digital behaviours that consistently pull you away from prayer and contemplation.
Finding Your Own Path
Remember, your digital detox journey is uniquely yours. What works for one person might not work for another. Start where you are, with what you have. Maybe it's setting aside your mobile during meals, or dedicating the first 15 minutes of your day to prayer instead of messaging. The goal isn't perfection—it's progress towards a more intentional relationship with both technology and God.
Prayer
Dear God,
Help us find moments of peace away from our mobiles and screens during this Advent season. When we're tempted to scroll endlessly through social media, remind us to take a breath and spend time with You instead. Give us the courage to put down our devices and the wisdom to use technology in ways that bring us closer to You.
We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Your Personal Invitation
This week, I invite you to join me in a simple but powerful challenge: spend 30 minutes each day away from your mobile, dedicating that time to spiritual growth through Bible reading, spiritual texts, meditation, or journaling.
God bless,
Mel
