TECHNOLOGY AND YOUR FAITH

Is technology and faith compatible? For many this may seem like polar opposites, but the fact is technology is a part of our daily life and has been since the beginning of Christianity. Admittedly it is far more advanced today; a computer bought today will be obsolete by the tomorrow. But can we find inspiration on the web? That is a resounding yes!

Technology has become part of our daily lives. Could you live without your refrigerator, your car or cell phone? The answer I bet it no. We count on these things to make our lives easier, and they do. I think that the computer can do the same for our faith.

If you are like many, you may not think of using the word ‘computer’ and ‘faith’ in the same sentence. The computer is a wonderful source for information regarding our faith. Books that were once difficult to obtain are now available. Today you can find some of the great classics of Christian and non-Christian thinkers with just a click of a button. Most of the great works of all the major religions are available.

Having said that, I must admit that it can be easy to start clicking away at information and get lost. You can start out with the best of intentions and before you know it you are lost in a copious amount of information. Looking up one topic can become a bit like a computer game, you sit down and say ‘I’m going to play only for 15 minutes’ and before you know it that time has morphed into an hour. I use to tell students to be aware of the black hole of the web. Like anything in life, it takes time and practice. It’s learning to ‘use’ technology and not let technology ‘use’ us. The fact is there are a number of great sites out there to deepen your faith, find inspiration and learn how to grow more spiritual.

Once you locate a site take the time to explore it. What might look, initially, as something you’re not interested in – may just surprise you. The key is to take the time and let the words resonate within you. Faith, unlike technology, is a slow process that needs to be tended. Like a seed that is planted, it needs nourishment to grow and thrive.

Our lives today have become so fast paced that it is difficult to slow down. I find myself at times moving at such a fast pace only to find out that I have not made much progress. Slowing down helps to regain a balance to our lives, and helps us to live in the present moment.

I think you will find that you can run into God in all kinds of places. You just have to keep your eyes and heart open. There is one word of caution, keep in mind that all sites are not equal and some may not be a good fit. Don’t give up – the possibilities are endless!

Here are a few of my favorite sites, that you may want to check out:

http://savior.org - Eucharistic Adoration

http://www.worldprayers.org – Prayers from a variety of faiths

http://www.catholic.org/prayers - Catholic Prayers

http://www.usccb.org/nab/ -- Readings of the day for Catholics

http://www.bestspirituality.com/quotes.htm - Quotes of inspiration from a variety of faiths

http://www.sdiworld.org/home.html - Help in finding a Spiritual Director