What do we really want in this life: a bigger apartment, a cute little puppy, enough food so that we will be strong and active, a good job, a loving spouse, the latest smartphone? This modern culture is not an easy, enjoyable one. Although smartphones are valuable in their rightful time and place, poring over our smartphone or staring at the television leaves us sitting in silence, rarely responding to those around us and often being left out of the sharing going on nearby. When we go out for lunch, at the tables around us, there are so many people sitting silently, staring at their smartphones, paying no attention to other people. Thinking that they are connected, they are actually isolated in their own interests.

Is the pattern of this modern, western world a good one? Where is God? Why are we so isolated? When I sit down and ponder about fitting into the current culture, I ask myself, what is missing? Some call this modern society a touchless society. Few are personally reaching out to each other. Many families lack the support of relatives, as family members are spreading out all over the world, and we no longer know even our neighbours. What is it that pleases us now? Is it direct, speedy communications that are so impersonal? How do we break out of this pattern?

Romans 12:2 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV)

We need to renew our minds! I reach out through music as the Holy Spirit fills me with the praises of God. Yes, we need to raise our voices and sing many praises of our God. We need to spread the love of God through caring and sharing with one another. This goes much deeper than just touching one another or using a smartphone. When Jesus was on this earth, He went about reaching out, personally touching the sufferers at the soul level, leading people to accept Him.

Today, Jesus calls each of us to reach out beyond this touchless society, spreading His love to one and all. With the Holy Spirit's guidance, let us reach out to each other with His love. That will take a renewing of personal relationships as we share the love of God.

Prayer: Dear God, please renew our minds today with the Holy Spirit so that we will see and think over all that claims us for the wonderful fellowship of real sharing through Jesus Christ, reaching out in love to many others who feel isolated, lonely, or depressed. Amen.

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