Lenten Thought of the Week: Social Media

Tony’s Lenten Thoughts are responsive to Pastor Will’s Sunday sermons. If you missed a sermon, visit our Sermon Archive here.

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Dear Friends,
 
Welcome to the second week of our Lenten journey. This week, Rev. Will encouraged us to examine how we use social media—how it shapes the way we come to know each other and how we allow ourselves to be known. Do we use it to foster real connection, or do we fall into patterns of objectifying, Othering, and being consumed by endless scrolling and comparison?
 
In our readings, we paused to reflect on Philippians 3:1: "Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is not troublesome to me, and for you, it is a source of steadfastness."
 
Paul reminds us that joy is not fleeting entertainment or distraction but a deep, steady anchor in our faith. True joy sustains us, strengthens our hearts, and allows us to remain present. Joy is not the same as happy.  Happiness can be fleeting and passive, whereas joy is an intentional decision to focus on the source of life, even in the midst of uncertainty and challenge.
 
So, as we engage with social media this week, let us ask ourselves:

1) How can I approach my use of social media with a mentality of joy?

2) How can I allow this joy to sustain me and shape how I care for the Other?

3) What is one small way I can intentionally focus on joy this week—perhaps by sharing something life-giving, pausing before I react, or stepping away from what drains me?

Here’s a prayer to help guide us:
Lord, guide my eyes and my heart. Let my online presence reflect love, not comparison; connection, not division. May my joy be rooted in you and shared freely with others. Amen.

If you have a thought to share or questions to ask for all of us, I encourage you to post a reflection.  
 
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Blessings on your journey,

Tony

PS: If you missed any of Rev. Will’s sermons, you can check them out on our YouTube Channel or on Apple Podcasts.

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