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Monday, July 8th, 2024. Refreshed. Read Matthew 6, 5-8.

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Then you will call, and the Lord will answer. You will cry for help, and God will say, I'm here.

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I was attempting to process a document for the Senior Center where I volunteer, but the sender wanted an electronic signature.

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On a good day I can master email, but soon I concluded that the e-signature wasn't going to happen.

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I've had similar frustrations with computer passwords, weak cell phone signals, dropped calls,

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car clocks that don't want to be reset, and smart televisions that are clearly smarter than me.

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What a blessing it is, I thought, that our Lord offers frustration-free, two-way communication 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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The lines are always open, and no password is required.

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A simple prayer uttered during a busy day never results in an error message.

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I realize the value and efficiency of the latest technology, but I'm far more comfortable with low-tech devices.

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I also prefer the simple practices of prayer, meditation, and communing with nature.

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While modern technology can at times leave me feeling exhausted,

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a walk and talk with the Holy One on a forest path has never failed to leave me feeling refreshed

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and recommitted to following Christ by loving others.

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O Lord, thank you for allowing us unlimited access to your peace and mercy, even in this busy, sometimes confusing world.

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Amen.