Almost anyone who has a computer will certainly have seen this instruction at least once when downloading and installing updates: “Please keep your computer on.” These updates ensure protection against viruses by closing potential security gaps in the software, and they improve the functioning of applications. They can be downloaded anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection.
The last time I read this message on my screen, it occurred to me that there might be parallels between this, and my growing understanding of God and my nature as His spiritual likeness. I was fascinated by the idea that through prayer I could see my connectedness to God anywhere, and get “updates” in the form of spiritual progress, healings, divine guidance and protection. Though I prayed with this idea for several days, it wasn’t accompanied by true inspiration. I was sure that the computer message was forwarding me in spiritual progress, though, so I decided to keep thinking about this.
My search was rewarded when I made an important distinction: The computer and its operating system were material, while the truth about myself and everyone else as the image and likeness of God was spiritual.