The novelty of Zoom meetings has worn off. No offense Zoom, you’ve been a big help!
Technology can do a lot of things, but not everything. For example, you can’t hug someone through a screen.
Recently on Zoom I discovered a feature called “Hide Self View.” If you select that option, you see the other people, but not yourself. I like it because seeing myself in a meeting is kind of distracting.
I think there’s something commendable and theological about the “Hide Self View” function. I don’t mean that we should try to disappear or pretend that we don’t matter. We do. But what if we were to ask God to help us override the Selfish-View default settings in our minds so that we can be more sensitive to the views of others?
Recall these inspiring (and potentially unsettling) words from Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
We live in a me-first world that celebrates vanity, selfishness and pride. But imagine a God-first world that shines with modesty, servanthood and humility?
Listening, learning and love.
It starts with the simple insight that you’re not only the only one with a view that matters.
Look to the interests of others.
Notes:
–Upcoming Break: The Up Devotional will go on pause after August 6, returning September 6. I’ll be on vacation!
–Bible quotes are from the NIV.
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