The Digital Fast Podcast, art, and intros were inspired and gleaned from "The Digital Fast," a book by Dr. Darren Whitehead.
Scripture References: Matthew 6:21; Matthew 12:34 (from intro/outro)
Intro: Welcome to this sermon reflection as we complete week one of our Lenten digital fast. Whether it's been smooth or challenging, thank you for starting! Today, Pastor Debra Avenellis joins us to discuss initial experiences and the purpose behind intentionally stepping back from our devices.
Key Points:
- Initial Reactions & Withdrawals: The first week often highlights our dependence. Removing devices can surface hidden emotions—nervousness, restlessness, anger, grief—as our usual digital "hiding places" or coping mechanisms are gone. Acknowledge these feelings; this phase is often temporary.
- Identifying Our Escapes: Many use phones as an escape from discomfort, boredom, or difficult situations, even with generally good habits. Debra shares her own recognition of this pattern despite initial resistance to the fast. Identifying what we escape to (social media, news, games, shopping) is revealing.
- The 'Why' Behind the Fast: This isn't just about device removal. It's about creating space. Space to notice God's gifts, practice Sabbath rest, cultivate gratitude, and allow healthier thoughts and connections to grow in place of digital numbing or distraction.
- (Setup for Discussion): The conversation begins to explore the specific ways we use technology to escape and what happens when those escapes are unavailable, prompting self-reflection for listeners.
Conclusion: Removing digital distractions is step one. The journey deepens as we become aware of why we reach for devices and intentionally choose God, rest, gratitude, and real connection instead. This first week is about noticing what surfaces.
Call to Action: Reflect honestly on your first week. What emotions or habits came to light? What are your go-to digital escapes? Thank God for what He's revealing. Ask for His help to lean into Him, rather than devices, during moments of unease or boredom this coming week.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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