On this day in history, January 27, 1866, the Atlantic Cable was completed, establishing communication by telegraph between England and the United States.  It’s hard to imagine what a wonder that must have been!  

Perhaps the wonder of it is lost to those of us who share instant communication on our cell phones.  We can text; we can face time.   It doesn’t matter where we are.  We can hear the voice and see the face of the one we wish to contact.   Imagine how unbelievable that would have sounded in 1866 when that simple telegraph message was a “modern miracle.”  Actually, I’m thinking of how unbelievable it would have been to me, not so many years ago.

If we just need to share information, like “the meeting is at 2:00 on Tuesday,” then technology is all we need.  But real communication takes more than technology.  It takes a readiness to listen before we respond.  It takes a willingness to build a bridge of understanding between two people.  This is true whether we are physically present with each other or using the means of technology.

The New Testament letter from James to God’s people reads, “Remember this, my dear brothers!  Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry.”  James 1:19

Our most instant communication is and always has been our prayer to our Father God.  We need only to think the word, to call to him in our need.  He hears, he listens.  There is no technology or lack of technology to slow down the transmission.  Whether you’re a “techie” or shun all this “new-fangled stuff,” your prayers are heard immediately by the loving God who is always present with you.  Now that is a miracle beyond our understanding!

And so, my friends, I pray that we will communicate with one another, openly and lovingly.  And, that we will communicate with our God constantly, accepting his unconditional love and sharing it with our brothers and sisters.

Peace,
Judy