John closed one of his ancient handwritten letters with a line of enduring relevance for those of us who now write with our thumbs: “Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink [modern technology for John]. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete” (2 John 12). John used technology to communicate, but he knew that his letter was only part of the communication. It was a way of expressing anticipation; face-to-face fellowship had to follow.
