What If Christmas Were Zoomed

In the season of Advent, we are reminded that we are in a season of waiting. We celebrate the birth of our Savior while also anticipating his return. We wonder when he will come? How will he show up? I had this crazy idea: what if Jesus chose Zoom over in-person?

Zoom may have been a good way to see the Christ child in the manger. Without leaving home or fields, all the world could have witnessed the nativity. Well, unless Mary chose to use the blurry background feature.

Zoom has been a convenience and a crutch for us. It has been a helpful tool that allows us to avoid city traffic while attending work, school, church, and other meetings. With just a few clicks, we are in the meeting space.

This tool is excellent for long-distance connections. However, it is also a bit of a handicap. It lacks the social norms that support human interaction. It cannot gently touch someone. A touch can say, I see you, or I have missed you. In Zoom, we can miss the facial expressions. Unless one is leading the meeting, people tend to appear only as names or symbols on the screen. No one can look into the eyes of another and notice the glimmer of joy or tear-flooded eyelids.

Modern technology is excellent, but when I see Jesus, I want to see him in person. I like the real face-to-face. I want to touch his garment and feel the energy from his presence within me. I want his hand to touch me, hug me, to touch my face, and wipe away tears.

Zoom can be convenient, but it is not always beneficial. In this season of waiting, I hope we do a little less Zoom and seek out more in-person contact.

People need to experience the love of Jesus up close. It is hard to share a touch, a kiss, a knowing look across the airwaves. We are the hands and feet of Jesus. People long to experience Jesus with skin on. There is something to be said for in-person visits where we serve a plate, give a cup of water, squeeze a hand, touch a face, and wipe away the tears.

Until Jesus returns, in as many ways as possible, we are to share Christ’s love. Zoom can be an option, but intentionally being present with someone is a better expression of love. Sharing the love of Christ is what Christmas is all about.  

Advent is anticipating Christ's coming again. I certainly hope his appearance is not merely a Zoom call.

Have a blessed Advent and a joyous Christmas!

Pastor Candy