“…if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
The other day a friend asked me if I had heard about a recent news event. I replied that I had not—and confessed that I feel as if I can’t even keep up. I suspect many of us feel this way: bombarded by distractions while trying to decipher all the mixed messages around us. It can leave you feeling like you are treading water only to have the waves keep rising around you.
The news cycle moves so fast that we often lose the historical context of events. The most “unprecedented” event that happened last week is now old news. There is no resolution; just a continual news feed. Is there a way to tune in without constant scrolling? Or, to frame it with more positive biblical language, is there a more excellent or praiseworthy way of being?
If adults are feeling this way, you can imagine what our children and youth may be feeling as they grow up in a world on constant alert and filled with constant distraction. It’s fitting that the theme for this year’s CBFNC Beach Retreat is “The Voice of Truth” and will focus on helping youth discern how to hear God’s truth amid all the noise. Our students (and adults!) will also be invited to create a “Digital Rule of Life” based on an ancient Christian monastic practice. The “digital rule of life” is a personal, intentional set of guidelines for how one interacts with technology. It’s about finding more focused, peaceful, and meaningful ways to engage with our world—on screens or off.
This weekend at Caswell Beach our group of 19 youth and adults will find plenty of time away from digital intrusions. There will be plenty of time for playing on the beach, exploring the forts, savoring ice cream together, and dancing at the 80s dance party. There will also be time set aside for bible study, worship, and reflection. Please pray for an excellent weekend!
Kyle Caudle
