pMany people spend hours every day on social networks. There’s nothing wrong with interacting with others this way. In fact, social media offers one of the greatest tools the Church has ever had for reaching the world with the gospel. But while social media is a fun and effective way to connect with people, it can also make it easier to neglect the value of face-to-face relationships. One author says: ‘Life is so much richer when we have friends with whom we can share our joys and troubles … Unfortunately loneliness remains a major problem and source of pain for many. But none of us need become resigned to loneliness; [it’s]…“treatable,” if not actually avoidable.’ Real relationships aren’t built just by posting updates, or sharing the most thought-provoking quotes. They also involve meeting someone’s needs in a way that never would’ve happened without a one-on-one connection. That’s what Jesus did. Most of His public ministry was spent pouring Himself into twelve men who, in turn, went out in His name and poured themselves into others. The Bible says, ‘Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.’ The psalmist spelled out how many people today feel deep down: ‘No one is concerned for me … no one cares’ (Psalm 142:4 NIV). If you want to meet people’s needs you have to get ‘up close and personal’. That’s what Jesus did, and He’s your example./p
pWhat Now?br /
How can you support a friend's dream or cause?/p