I guess diversion is good once in a while.  We all need a little change from the fast pace of life.  We often become so involved in the rat race that we forget why we’re in it.  We run around like ants going back and forth from nest- to the world- to provision and back again – often missing out on the path along the way.

A few weeks ago I noticed a small group of people standing in one area with their cell phones at the ready.  I assumed they were there to meet someone or were a group of runners who had stopped to catch their breath and fuel up on their emails.  As the days went by, the group began to grow.  As I passed the spot a few days ago, I was amazed to see a crowd of about 50 with noses in phones, lawn chairs, silly hats, picnic baskets, and water bottles.   No – they weren’t all kids or millennials.  There were also those in their 50s and up.

Apparently a new craze has developed over a long gone Nintendo character who is making a strong comeback with those who are into it.  It’s also caused some problems.  In a time when protests over controversial issues are becoming the norm, it’s easy to assume this might be a group of radicals or free speechers.  Some issues have arisen regarding the sites they meet at – because they are special parks honoring veterans.

I don’t have a problem with this phenomena per se, but I’m curious as to why so many are looking for this silly little character.  Sure it’s a game.  Maybe people are just looking for some different kind of physical exercise to go along with their smart phone activities, or chance encounters or opportunities to meet others like themselves. Maybe their lives need something to fill an empty spot within them.

I wonder what would happen if I stood in the middle of a parkway with a Bible app on my phone and began reading out loud.  Would I attract a crowd?  Would people listen to the words?  Would the Word make a difference?  Of course we know that the Word will never return void.  Maybe we should think about doing that.