Curious Christian

In his book, The Next Story: Life and Faith after the Digital Explosion, Tim Challies observed: “Our perception of community is becoming disembodied, a product of mediated communication based on shared interest rather than a product of face-to-face communication based on shared space.” 

This comment resonates deeply with me as I reflect on what it means to truly belong to a community. It captures a profound shift in how we connect with one another in today’s digital age, reminding me that community is not just a collection of individuals with similar interests; it’s a living, breathing entity that thrives on authentic relationships and mutual support.

In our increasingly online world, it’s all too easy to confuse virtual connections with genuine community. While social media allows us to communicate and share ideas, these interactions often lack the depth and warmth of genuine human engagement. I’ve found that many conversations online can feel superficial, reducing complex thoughts and feelings to quick comments or reactions. This trend is particularly concerning as I navigate my own faith and the community around me.

There’s something profoundly different about being physically present with someone—the warmth of a shared smile, the comfort of a hug, and the way body language can express what words sometimes cannot. In true community, we learn to love one another in tangible ways, helping each other through difficult times, celebrating joys together, and confronting challenges in ways that foster growth and understanding. I often think of the early communities of faith that were built on shared lives and mutual accountability. They gathered not just for worship but to live life together, sharing resources, experiences, and their spiritual journeys.

This leads me to ponder: How do we cultivate true community in a world where disembodiment seems to be the norm? It requires intentionality. We must actively seek opportunities for face-to-face interactions—through gatherings, shared meals, or simply spending time in each other’s homes. Creating spaces where people feel safe to express their vulnerabilities and where we can truly listen to one another is essential. This kind of community reflects the love of Christ, a love that is deeply relational and inherently personal.