“Easy” Relationships Are No Bargain

Millions of us rushed out on Black Friday to get those discounted deals marketers make us fight for every year. In today’s economy, we seem to constantly be searching for the best bargain. Unfortunately, I see this same “bargain shopping” attitude when it comes to our relationships with others and with God. 

All good relationships require work and sacrifice. But with so much of today’s communication reliant on technology, we increasingly seem to be able to relate to one another only through social media and mobile phones. Listening is the single most powerful gift you can give a friend or loved one, and it can’t be given in 140 characters or less. Rather than connecting in face-to-face conversations, people are looking for a “bargain” – a way to do less and still maintain a strong relationship. 

How we conduct our relationships with others reflects on our relationship with God. In our relationship with God, we need to take the time to go to church, to meet God “face to face” during our quiet moments in prayer and to be of service to those in need. The holiday season is the perfect time to open ourselves to what God has to tell us. Just like our friends and loved ones, God is waiting for us to really listen.