“Apps”

By

Emilio Chaviano

April 15, 2011

It was not too long ago when I did not know the meaning of the term “app.”  Well it means “application.” In our highly technological, computer driven culture “applications” are the different programs that allow a computer, or your smart phone to perform wonderful things for you. In my days an application was a form I had to fill out to get a job. Examples of “apps” are voice recognition and the ability to locate restaurants in the area where you happen to be. Frankly, I have no idea of all the possibilities in the field of applications. I have also learned that having more “apps” than your friends is some form of status symbol. Yesterday I learned about applications that help us celebrate Passover and Easter properly. If you don’t know what to do at home to properly observe your religious tradition, then turn on your device and let the “app” tell you. I had to take a deep breath, put the paper down for a moment and find inner peace. For so many, Passover and Easter mean nothing more than eating the right food and coloring eggs. Use your “apps”, but do not forget that the best source is Scripture. For Jews Passover is all about freedom and rememberingIsrael’s exodus fromEgypt. For Christians Easter is  about freedom and resurrection. Both traditions celebrate “new life.”  Please, during Passover and Easter find some time to turn OFF your electronic devices and sit down with your copy of Holy Scriptures and read about the events of Passover and Holy Week. Let the profoundly spiritual meanings sink in once more and find some practical application for your life. Since you are reading this via internet, do not forget to turn your machine back on in case I send you some other message next week. Oh, by the way, you can also get the sacred writings as an “app” for your cell phone. I think that’s great!