Embrace a Digital Fast to Elevate Your Spirit This Lent
Understanding the Ubiquitous Influence of Modern Technology
Contemporary life is intricately woven with technology, permeating nearly every aspect of our existence. The shift towards remote work and online learning, significantly accelerated by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, has further entrenched digital devices into our daily routines. During this period, adults often found themselves spending an astounding 19 hours daily tethered to screens. Such prolonged exposure contributes to issues like sleep disturbances, compulsive behaviors, altered cognitive functions, and diminished physical activity. However, these adverse effects can be mitigated through regular breaks from digital engagement.
While professional and educational commitments may necessitate certain levels of screen time, we retain agency over our leisure-time digital consumption. The Lent season presents an opportune moment to consciously redirect our focus from technology towards a spiritual connection with God.
Embracing a Digital Fast for the Lenten Period
As Easter approaches, the practice of Lent invites us into a period of preparation and reflection. This 40-day observance mirrors Jesus' 40 days of fasting in the wilderness, serving as a time for self-denial and spiritual discipline. Fasting, as referenced in scripture (e.g., Joel 2:12-13), often complements prayer, creating space for deeper communion with the divine. Lent is thus an ideal time to minimize distractions and immerse ourselves in prayer.
Reflect on the extent to which technology consumes your time and attention during this Lenten period. Consider how your phone might divert your focus from God and cherished relationships. Ponder the potential positive transformations in these relationships should you intentionally reduce your technological engagement.
We challenge you to embark on a technology fast for the duration of Lent. Step away from your phones and other devices to intentionally reconnect with Christ through prayer and contemplative remembrance. Embrace this challenge to diminish technological interference as we commemorate Christ's resurrection.
Practical Strategies for a Technology-Reduced Lent
Here are five effective methods to help you reduce technology's presence in your life during Lent:
The “Two-Hour Challenge”: Deliberate Digital Breaks
In the insightful publication, Becoming a Screen Savvy Family, the concept of the “Two-Hour Challenge” is introduced. This initiative encourages setting aside a continuous two-hour block each day to completely disengage from all digital devices. While a full-day digital abstinence might seem daunting, dedicating just two hours daily offers an achievable goal. Utilize this liberated time for profound Bible study or to commence a prayer journal. For those who find detaching from technology particularly challenging, this offers a manageable entry point into a Lenten digital fast.
Application: Allocate a consistent two-hour window daily throughout Lent to put away all devices. Use this dedicated time to engage in activities that foster a closer bond with Christ.
“Out of Sight, Out of Mind”: Eliminating Distracting Applications
Often, it is not technology in its entirety but specific applications that hijack our attention. During Lent, consider removing apps that consume excessive time or offer minimal benefit, such as social media platforms or gaming applications. Research indicates that individuals who limit social media to under 30 minutes daily experience a marked improvement in overall well-being. Imagine the potential benefits if you were to completely abstain from social media for 40 days.
Application: Whether you choose to delete one app or all forms of social media, commit to its removal from your daily life during Lent. When you find yourself instinctively reaching for the app, pause and engage in prayer instead.
Making Your Smartphone Less Alluring: Customizing for Focus
With the growing trend of digital detoxification, various customization options exist to make your phone less tempting for mindless usage. Applications such as Minimalist or Blank Spaces are designed to reduce daily screen time by removing addictive features. Another effective strategy is to switch your phone's display to grayscale mode. By adjusting color settings, you can diminish the captivating allure of vibrant colors, making your device less engaging and more conducive to intentional use.
Application: This Lent season, choose an app or method to render your phone less appealing. Mute the enticing visual elements or colors that often encourage aimless scrolling.
Reclaiming Mornings and Evenings: Investing in a Traditional Alarm Clock
For many, the phone is both the first object encountered upon waking and the last seen before sleep. Transform this habit during Lent by relocating your phone to a different room at night. Enhance your sleep quality by avoiding your phone an hour before bed and an hour after waking. A traditional alarm clock eliminates the need for your device during your initial waking hour, allowing you to fill this crucial time with scripture reading and prayer. Instead of ephemeral distractions shaping your day, let God's word saturate your heart and mind.
Application: Purchase an alarm clock and keep your phone out of your bedroom while you sleep. Let the Word of God be the first and last thing you engage with daily, rather than your phone.
Opting for Simpler Devices: Investing in Less Distracting Technology
If your goal is a complete removal of your primary technological device, consider abstaining from your smartphone for the 40 days of Lent. For essential communication, acquiring a basic, less technologically advanced phone, like a flip phone, can maintain connectivity without the distracting features of a smartphone. While this option involves an initial investment, it is an excellent choice for those seeking to integrate regular technology fasts into their routine. This small investment can significantly reduce technology's grip on your life.
Application: Put aside your smartphone for the Lenten season. If necessary, procure a simpler phone to maintain essential communication, thereby removing smartphone distractions and fostering spiritual and relational growth.
These suggestions offer a starting point for re-evaluating your interaction with technology during Lent. We encourage further exploration to discover the method best suited for your individual journey.
Cultivating Intentionality During Your Lenten Fast
Ensure that the time freed up by your technology fast is utilized purposefully. Direct this newfound time towards activities that promote spiritual growth. Integrate practices such as studying God's word, engaging in prayer, and serving others to replace the hours you would typically spend on your phone.
Embracing Gradual Progress for Lasting Change This Lent
As you challenge yourself to temporarily alter your technology usage for 40 days this Lent, recognize that sustainable change is built on small, consistent steps. Rather than attempting all five suggestions simultaneously, select one method to practice throughout the season. Consistency in making minor adjustments is more impactful, focusing on preserving the benefits. Even a seemingly small act, like setting aside your phone for two hours daily, can lead to enduring shifts in your technological habits and, more significantly, create ample space for a deeper connection with our Savior.