When Our Tech Fails, Remember What Never Does

By: Heather Shoffstall, Director of Student Ministry

We live in a world utterly dependent on technology. From smartphones in our pockets to the complex networks that power our cities, we rely on these innovations for communication, commerce, entertainment, and nearly every facet of modern life. And for the most part, it's fantastic. We can connect with loved ones across continents, access a universe of information with a few taps, and even have our groceries delivered by a robot (almost).

But let's be honest, how many times have you felt that sudden panic when your computer crashes and you lose hours of work? What about the sheer annoyance of a glitchy app, a frozen screen, or a device that refuses to cooperate? Or that pang of frustration when your internet goes down? (Sound familiar?)

Technology, for all its brilliance, is inherently fallible. It's built by humans, subject to bugs, wear and tear, and planned obsolescence. Computers can be hacked, malfunction, or become outdated. Think of the once cutting-edge flip phones, dial-up modems, or even the "reliable" software that suddenly decides to update at the most inconvenient time. The truth is, our tech will always, at some point, let us down. It's part of its nature.

In the past couple of weeks, we have been experiencing moments of technological meltdown at Dutilh Church. We have been frustrated with not being able to experience church the way we are used to. While our digital world crumbles around us, it serves as a potent reminder that we need something more constant, more dependable, something that isn't susceptible to coding errors or power outages. And for us Christians, that unwavering reliability is found in our faith in Jesus Christ.

The Bible speaks extensively about God's steadfastness. Hebrews 13:8 tells us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." This isn't just a comforting thought; it's a foundational truth. Unlike our ever-evolving and often-failing technology, Jesus doesn't crash, doesn't require updates, and doesn't become obsolete. His love, his promises, and his presence are eternal and unchanging.

When our Wi-Fi cuts out, His connection remains. When our devices freeze, His grace flows freely. When our apps glitch, His character is perfect. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, where even the tools we rely on can suddenly betray us, the unwavering faithfulness of Jesus offers an anchor for our souls.

So, the next time your phone dies at 1% battery or your computer decides to run a "critical update" in the middle of your work, take a deep breath. It's okay to be frustrated but let it also be a gentle nudge. A reminder that while our technological innovations are incredible, they are not ultimate.

Our ultimate hope and peace come from something, or rather someone, far greater than any invention. It comes from a source that is truly flawless, eternally reliable, and always there, no matter what. In a world of failing tech, Jesus never fails. And that is the most powerful update we could ever receive.