Take a moment to remember one or two genuine encounters online that you are grateful for this week.

Perhaps it was a hearty conversation with a friend or with a loved one over a video call. Maybe, it was that productive online meeting or an insightful webinar.  

While in social media, it may be a video you watched, a story you have read, or simply a picture that inspired you and brought you back to a good memory...gave you insights...made you laugh. 

Ah, the wonders of the internet! 

God in his kindness and wisdom, made it so. Be grateful for these gifts. 

As you look back at your online interactions this week,

Reflect and ask yourself:

How were my encounters online? 

Were they genuine, productive, and life-giving? 

Was there a moment (or moments), I felt like I wasted time mindlessly scrolling through news feeds and looking at posts in my social media accounts? Did it make me feel tired?

How did I feel about the news and conversations I have read and interacted with online? 

How did they affect me? 

Have I discerned well before sharing my posts and giving comments online?

Have I shared posts and responded in ways I would be proud of to acknowledge before others and God? 

Have I shared only what is truthful?

If I will read aloud my online posts, can I honestly say that:

My posts, comments, and likes fostered hope, justice, respect, peace, and understanding? 

Brought me closer to God and others?

Pause for a while and bring all of your prayer thoughts, feelings, and insights into a conversation with God.

As you do this, you may also say sorry for the things you regret and humbly ask for God's forgiveness and mercy.