The practice: One hour each day without devices

In the book, The Common Rule, author Justin Earley says, “The smartphone is a tool that enables many things but it will never multiply our presence.” The first practice is one of resistance and loving neighbour - taking time away from our phones in order to be present with God, with ourselves, with our work, and with our neighbour. 

Three hours to consider: 

• An hour at work - to engage in “deep work” as an act of joining God in working for the good of our city and world

• An hour with others - at home or with friends to be present with our neighbour

• An hour of silence - To be present with God and ourselves

This sermon is the second introduction sermon, which means it includes the weekly practice of one hour without devices, as well as further introducing the idea of a rule of life as a whole.

Resources

Books

• The Tech Wise Family by Andy Crouch 

• Deep Work by Cal Newport

• Faith for Exiles by David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock

Websites, Podcasts, & Video

• Case for Digital Asceticism by Bridgetown Church

• Social Dilemma on Netflix
  A documentary on how we are shaped by the algorithms behind social media.