Digital Distractions Lessons from Colossians

From head to hands, we navigate this world with its myriad of distractions that so often pull us away from the presence of God. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, invites us to consider the preeminence of Christ in all things. He writes in Colossians 1:17, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” This profound truth echoes throughout the ages, affirming the centrality of Christ not only in our spiritual lives but in our daily existence. As we confess this truth, we acknowledge that our lives are to glorify Him, rooted in prayer and anchored in His Word. The theological principle here is clear: Christ is the foundation upon which we build our lives, and we must be vigilant in ensuring that distractions do not derail this divine focus.

In the creeds and doctrines we hold dear, we affirm that Jesus is Lord over all aspects of our lives, including the ever-present digital landscape that so easily entices us away from meaningful engagement with Him and others. Our reliance on technology, while often beneficial, can lead to a disconnection from the sacred rhythms of life that foster true intimacy with God. As we reflect on this doctrine, we must also consider its implications: Are we allowing our devices to distract us from the beauty of prayer, worship, and fellowship? Are we prioritizing our digital interactions over our relationships with the beloved community God has placed around us? Oh, dear one, may we take heed of these questions, for they call us back to the heart of our faith—a faith that insists on Christ's preeminence in every corner of our lives.

The Truth in Flesh and Blood

But bodies complicate things: As I sit here in my cozy armchair, the sunlight filters through the window, casting a warm glow over my well-loved Bible, and I am reminded of the physical embodiment of our faith. It is one thing to confess the preeminence of Christ; it is another entirely to live it out in our frail, human bodies. We are physical beings with limitations, and our bodies often dictate the choices we make daily. I recall the afternoons spent with my grandchildren, their laughter filling the air as they play in the garden. In those moments, I see how the distractions of screens and devices can slip away in the presence of tangible joy—joy that is meant to be experienced fully.

In the hustle and bustle of life, our bodies call us to attention. Some days, the weight of caregiving for aging parents or the joy of celebrating a grandchild's birthday can pull us in various directions. In Colossians 3:23-24, we read, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.” This reminds me to be present in each moment, attending to the people and tasks that fill my days. As I help my neighbor with groceries or share a cup of tea with a friend, I feel the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit, encouraging me to prioritize relationships over notifications and tasks.

Our physical practices—eating meals together, spending time outdoors, or engaging in hands-on activities—become sacred moments that draw us closer to God and one another. In this digital age, we must reclaim these bodily experiences, finding ways to cultivate connection and community that transcend the screens. As I have navigated the challenges of loss and the joy of family gatherings, I have learned to cherish the moments where my body engages with others, where laughter and love abound, and where distractions fade into the background of God’s precious presence.

Truth in Relationship

In real life: The heart of this theological truth is most vividly seen in our relationships with one another. As I look back on my years of teaching, I remember the countless hours spent with my students, helping them navigate their own distractions and challenges. I often think of a beloved student who struggled with attention issues. He would come into the classroom, eyes glazed over from late-night gaming sessions. With gentle encouragement, I would remind him of the importance of being present in our classroom community. In the same way, Paul urges the Colossians to “put on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12), inviting them to embody these qualities in their interactions.

When we prioritize our relationships, we begin to see the fruit of our labor. Family dynamics can often be complicated, especially in a world where screens dominate our conversations. I have witnessed how my own family gatherings become richer when we set aside our devices to engage in meaningful dialogue, sharing stories of the past and dreams for the future. We intentionally create an environment where love abounds and distractions are put to rest. In those moments, I feel the very