UPDYKE books
Have a real conversation with someone today. Truly connect with that person. Demonstrate to them that they have value. Be Jesus to someone today. Be encouraging!
I’ve been wondering about the changes we are experiencing and endorsing so enthusiastically. They are coming at a fast pace via the internet and social media. Even my Windows computer is now determined to link with my phone, though I have not directed it to do so. And simply considering social media is not to mention the increasing presence of TV via its wifi stream.
Sometimes I feel like we are caught in a tidal wave and the affect on our lives will be of tsunami proportions.
I recently took a nostalgic walk down the pathway of memory lane. I liked them in my past and the words written by a poet/musician in 1964 have withstood the test of time. Although they were comforting to me when I sought affirmation in my youth, they now speak more clearly of loneliness and isolation. They seem to be prophetic. Hear what Paul Simon said in, “The Sound of Silence.”
“And in the naked light I saw,
Ten thousand people, maybe more.
People talking without speaking,
People hearing without listening.
People writing songs that voices never share,
No one dare,
Disturb the sound of silence.”
I wonder if our “connected” age of instant messaging, texts, emails, and social media has resulted in a lack of real communication – hence, the “sound of silence.”
It seems to me that people visit with each other much less these days, and that intimate, engaging conversation is becoming a real rarity.
Yes, I am posting these sentiments on Facebook. Perhaps this writing is therefore an exercise of futile contradiction; but who will hear otherwise? Dare I, we, disturb the “sound of silence?”
The poet continues:
“ ‘Fools’ said I, ‘You do not know,
Silence like a cancer grows.
Hear my words that I might teach you,
Take my arms that I might reach you.’
But my words like silent raindrops fell,
And echoed in the wells of silence.”
And the questions echo in my brain with haunting reverberation: is the new social way of the internet God’s way, or is it the snare of a trap? Can we use it for His glory, somehow… with determination and discipline? But how?
The poet concludes:
“And the people bowed and prayed,
To the neon god they made.
And the sign flashed out its warning,
In the words that it was forming.
And the sign said, ‘The words of the prophets
Are written on the subway walls,
And tenement halls,
And whispered in the sounds of silence.’”
Yes, I know that I am only “whispering,” with this post. But, perhaps you would like to share it…?
More importantly, let’s claim social media with grace, being intentional to encourage each other with witness to Truth. This is my purpose for The Contemporary Christian.
www.facebook.com/groups/thecontemporarychristian
Check it out, consider joining our discussion, and invite others who are like minded and kind hearted.
And yes, take the time to really talk to someone today.
God Bless!!
Edify - Encourage - Empower! with Updyke's novels:
"These books are meant to be shared." Tell your friends to visit UpdykeBooks.com.
The Cross
Necklace
for the Sake of Sam
PURCHASE REVIEW
Here is a story of mercy and grace. It is among those that urge us to believe in truths higher than our preferred opinions, to act in ways that honor the image of God. “THE CROSS NECKLACE – For the Sake of Sam” promises these elements with a beautiful theme and intent. We all enjoy stories that spark the imagination in the way the Advocate does - that perhaps someone wiser and more knowing looks out for us and, if we are paying attention, guides us toward best outcomes.
In the small town of Walthem, Samuel Urban is known as the people’s judge. Once shown mercy, this magistrate feels obligated to grant unto those brought before him a second chance. Sam’s journey, one of pitfalls and recovery, is something people still talk about.
It was the intervention of his predecessor that saved Sam from a penalty that loomed like a noose, determined to claim his young life. But his acquittal stirred resentment in one who, unknowingly to Sam, became his archenemy. His nemesis seethed with anger at the news of Sam’s release from prison and the thought of him going unpunished.
The mysterious alliance that now desires to lynch Sam is not only reclusive, but very powerful and influential, and from them there will be no reprieve, because they lack understanding. But will he win in the end?
This is the story about a young couple, Sam and his girlfriend Jodi, but more importantly, it documents the influence of an Advocate, established in truth, for setting them free from their deepest despair.
The disgrace of Sam being charged a second time is more than they can bear. They are without hope until they discover a force at work in their lives which is greater than the reckless power possessed by their enemies.
Battle lines are drawn. The game of war is about to commence. But in truth, life is surely much more than a game. (Based on a true story.)
The Secrets of Sweetened Vales
Blessings All Mine
PURCHASE REVIEW
She was his first crush. When Julianne suddenly disappeared, he demanded answers, but those who knew what happened to her refused to tell him. Vincent’s heart was broken, but time didn’t wait for the truth to be revealed. He eventually moved on. Then one day a friend request came like a ghost from his past to resurrect the secrets of Sweetened Vales. And his haunts returned. Something strange had happened in that small town where its residents were healed, the source of it remaining a mystery.
Today it all seems like a dream as the world is consumed with the information age, yet the meaning of Vincent’s past is not explained by a search of the web. His personal experience, meaningful history, is soon to be forgotten. And still, he carries the scars of Sweetened Vales; his heart remains broken. Medication numbs the enduring pain.
The mystique of the strawberry fields known in his youth no longer entices a grower. Gone is the hopeful expectation Vincent once felt there. Wearing a cyber mask, he pretends to be someone he isn’t, in danger of losing his true self. He wonders if hope can be recovered like buried treasure, to heal the hurting once again.
Nowadays fresh strawberries are prominently displayed by the grocer year around, but this genetically altered fruit isn’t gratifying, not like the savory harvest from the fields of Sweetened Vales. Looking back, it's easy to see how the age inherited is altering us too.
What secrets does his past hold? Vincent intends to find out, to be free of the disappointing repetition that defines him. There was something very special about that strawberry farm and it is still intended for us today.
Thereafter
The earth shakes violently and the struggle of their after lives becomes the ultimate test.
PURCHASE REVIEW
Historical, end times fiction, “Thereafter”
is a book with insight for coming days, based on historical facts and an interpretation of prophetic writings.
The evidence we can glean from history is most convincing. Current events need to be understood within the context of lessons learned from our past. This book presents a fictional scenario of future events.
It’s a difficult and controversial topic, but one which we should not completely ignore. This writing is based two strong convictions. First, a time of great persecution is coming. Hatred is very strong.
Jesus said that nations will be offended, betray one another, and hate one another.
Secondly, we should not be surprised when it happens. He also told us to study for understanding, pray for refuge, recognize and understand the signs that foretell what is to come, and be ready.
Yes, we should be prepared! Are you?
“Thereafter” is insightful and thought provoking. Don’t just watch current events, interpret them!
Write a comment
Melissa Wardrop (Saturday, 10 March 2018 15:16)
First of all, I’m blown away by the words of a song that most of know...even to a generation younger such as mine we sing the words to this song and I can say for myself I never noticed it’s applicable message to our now technological age. Yes, it does seem prophetic. I think we as a society are becoming increasingly lonely and disconnected yet we’re overwhelmed with ‘ connecting ‘.
I notice how it seems people less and less notice the world around them bc they are looking at their screen. I’ve seen a table with a couple or family all looking at their own individual devices and missing the present moment they have with each other. I’ve sat on a shuttle where small talk used to be common and now everyone’s are eyes are fixed on their device.
I’m guilty to a degree. It’s something that requires constant discipline. Even my eight year old comments when I’m on my phone. She even reprimands me when I’m paying bills or arranging play dates! I’ve asked her to be my check! She especially responds to her duty if I pick up my phone while driving!
She knows and understands it’s a deviation or distraction from the attention she deserves!
I hate to think I’m loosing moments with my children for something futile, moments I’ll never get back!
The Bible states the enemy comes to kill and destroy...seeking those whom he may devour. Our screens and this multidimensional world I believe is tool the enemy can and does use if we are not vigilant. He steels moments we can’t get back. As it spirals, I believe he will it use to kill, one attempt at a time. Producing strain, distance, loneliness, low self esteem etc.
I watched the movie Connected two weeks ago. Kirk Cameron highlights the danger of technology especially for our children. I appreciate how he claimed it is all part of a spiritual battle. We need to vigilant and ready to protect and defend our children. But first we must have healthy restrictions ourselves!
I then read and article about an app musicly. What lies underneath the appearance is a very dark, twisted dimension that our youth is getting access to and becoming influenced by.
As of right now, in our home; our kids will not have smart phones till they can pay for them themselves. Flip phones for emergencies will be the go to... yes, we will have a family computer where they can hone in on their technological skills and it will be highly monitored. Will they be ridiculed? Will they be left out? I’m sure to a degree. But they have their entire life to learn the in’s and outs of it all. God also calls us to be separate from the world. So maybe we shouldn’t dive deep into this unknow abyss.
I agree...it’s like were in the experimental stage. What will come of this and how it will effect our world could be astronomical in its effect.
We need to press in and ask God to show us how to have real, connections!