According to Wikipedia, the Collins English Dictionary chose the word “binge-watch” as the word of the year in 2015. (And that was before 2020.) Wikipedia also reports that in the 1930’s, magazines, radio, and movies deliberately set out to create comedic, inspirational, or fantastical content to divert people’s attention from their problems. For centuries, people have let themselves get lost in mythology, music, and other forms of escapism.
These things by themselves are not bad. Distraction is not even bad. In fact, it can be a very useful tool when dealing with distressing emotions, thoughts, or circumstances. Why then would I need to fast from escapism? Well, let’s see. Do I ever put off my work, my family, or my God to stare at my phone or lay on my couch? When I’m overwhelmed, do I turn to social media, games, or Netflix for relief before I get on my knees and pray? Do I check out more than I check in?
Let’s check back in to our lives. Let’s engage with our God, our family, our work, our life. Here are some encouraging verses to get us started.
“…But you brought my life up from the pit, O Lord, my God.” (Jonah 2:6)
“…Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights; For with you is the fountain of life…” (Psalm 36:7-9)
“…I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)
We don’t need an escape. We need Jesus to lift us up through our hard realities, shelter us, nourish us, and bless us abundantly. Let’s let him.