In today’s world dating apps seem to be a dime a dozen. Everywhere you look there are dating apps for each and every demographic. There are so many different apps that if you were looking for a farmer you can search on the farmer dating app. (Yes, that’s a real thing! No judgement but I couldn’t believe it either.)
I could not actually find an actual number or estimate for the number of apps currenly published and in use, but I did look at multiple sites that led me to a quiz which would show me which app suited what type of, let’s say connection, I was seeking.
1 site gave me coverage of 40 different apps available to me.
Before I came to know and follow Jesus Christ I was on multiple apps. At one point I think I would cycle through at least 3 apps at the same time hoping for the impossible. When I did match with someone we would chat, make plans and eventually grab dinner or a drink, or two, or three and more often than not the night ended with an alcohol infused, dopamine fueled kiss (to say the least) which sent me flying high to the moon and head over heels. The feeling of ecstasy with this new partner was addicting.
How much time did I invest in the actual relationship? If I’m completely honest not a very much, and that is probably over exaggerating it. I didn’t have to because if it didn’t work out I could fire up my relationship finders and match with the next one.
My next perfect match was just a click away.
While this was fun for a period of time I am unequivocally convinced that these apps ruined dating in my 20’s for me. I was emotionally unavailable, mentally unhealthy and addicted to the rush of the swipe, the match and the perfect first date. And my oh my was I good at the first date, although that was about it.
The first dates would be magical and beautiful and intimate and I could convince myself and the other party that this was meant to be. I was able to say all the right things and do all the right things.
Then I met Jesus. I met Jesus and quickly realized that I had swiped right in efforts to hide my pain, cease my suffering and squelch my unhappiness.
I do believe these apps may be useful for some and I’m sure there are virtuous stories among happy endings however, I don’t think they are used in a healthy manner, or for the right purposes, in the majority of instances.
As I ventured along this pathway learning about who Jesus was, is and will be as well as what he has done, does and will do for me, I eventually gave up all of the apps and have found solace in the presence and relationship with Jesus Christ.
I read the Bible and learned that it was unquestionably the longest love letter written which was telling me how much God loves me. He was showing me how much I needed Him and what exactly my saviour Jesus has done to rescue me from my unhappiness, my pain and my trauma. It wasn’t long after I discovered the truth that Jesus died for me that I came to a quite funny but life changing discovery.
Jesus swiped right on me and anxiously waited for me to match with him.
I chuckle now even as I share this but essentially this is what he has done.
Romans 5:8 (NLT) conveys this quite clearly:
8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
I realized, accepted and experienced that Jesus Christ “swiped right” for the world when he was crucified and is eagerly yet patiently waiting for each and every one of us to “match” with him.
While there is no application process required to present to Jesus he simply wants us to know and believe that we are special and uniquely made, loved and desired by Him, the Father and the Spirit.
The one and only truly righteous and holy God, Creator and Lover of the world has chosen you before you took your first breath.
Will you swipe right?
Love Has a Name 
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