Thirst for Quiet
November 4th, 2009Wednesday’s Reflection
GOD, WE ARE a strange bunch. Immersed in our communication technology, we thirst for quiet; and in our silence we hunger for noise. Forgive us for the incessant droning of our TVs, that racket of a mechanical presence to which we rarely listen — for in our loneliness, we may simply be craving your nearness. Amen.
- W. Paul Jones
An Eclectic Almanac for the Faithful
From p. 246 of An Eclectic Almanac for the Faithful by W. Paul Jones. Copyright © 2006 by the author. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission of Upper Room Books. http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/. Learn more about or purchase this book.
Today’s Question
How do you resonate with today’s message? Share your thoughts.
Today’s Scripture Reading
Christ did not go into a Holy Place made by human hands. … He went into heaven itself, where he now appears on our behalf in the presence of God.
- Hebrews 9:24, GNT
This Week …
- Special Need:
- This Week: Pray for caregivers. Add your prayer to the Prayer Wall.
- Tips for Your Spirit:
- Looking for clarity? Learn the Quaker way of the Clearness Committee to help with making tough decisions. Try it out.
- Saints, Inc.:
- This week we remember Antoinette Brown Blackwell (November 5).
- Lectionary Readings:
Sponsored by The Upper Room daily devotional guide. Subscribe Today.
Copyright © 2009 The Upper Room | PO Box 340004 | Nashville, TN 37203-0004 | USA
November 4th, 2009 at 4:36 am
It seems more and more lately, that when I leave work – I just need silence on the way home. No phone calls, no radio, just utter silence to unwind. Even at that point – I don’t tend to talk to God or ponder Him, just unclutter my mind and be silent. I never used to experience this – and I think it has something to do with age too (smile). But, eventually after I decompress, in the silence I become aware of God. Gratitude, confession, or just experiencing Him. It used to be automatic to flip on the radio. Now, thanks be to God, it is becoming more automatic and enjoyable to be still and eventually have my thoughts go to Him…as opposed to when I am irate and I rush before Him. He takes it all, however I come – but I am thinking He enjoys a quiet entry.
And about that plank from yesterday…hmmmm – got dope slapped by a plank I wasn’t expecting. God is good – and He works through others. Once I steadied myself – I had to right a wrong – the recognition of that is so painful. But heeding the Spirit’s call is so cleansing – and seeking forgiveness of another through confession – that is of God. Thank You Father.
November 4th, 2009 at 5:13 am
Jill, I get the Holy 2×4s, too. =D
An online friend recently asked: What are you most deeply seeking at this time in your life? And where are your tears leading you?
My response, after a long time of reflection: I am seeking restoration. My tears lead me to silence before God.
The two are–must be–connected.
I teach a class on the topic of the labyrinth–its history, cultural significance, ancient and modern uses, design and construction, etc., and I give my students opportunities to experience them, too. We were sharing recently about our thoughts as we walked a local labyrinth, and I mentioned that my usual state of “monkeymind”, as I call it, is utterly stilled while walking a labyrinth. That incessant internal chatter is just as much part of my personal noise pollution as the external barrage of radio, TV, cars, lawnmowers, barking dogs, shrieking children . . . and escape from it just as welcome. Entering the labyrinth for me is entering into the presence of God where I can just *be*, before Him, still and aware of His love.
November 4th, 2009 at 7:40 am
When the author says “we are a strange bunch” concerning this topic, I totally relate. For me, I can feel totally alone in a crowd, yet feel most comfortable alone. The problem with me when it comes time to pray, is all the ‘noise’ that goes on inside my head, the racing thoughts. This makes it hard for me to concentrate on my talk with the Lord.
Although, I must say that the Lord somehow gets through all the ‘clutter’ in my mind and He hears my prayers, for He has answered so many. I am so grateful to Him.
November 4th, 2009 at 10:01 am
Unusual quiet
Presents us with a
Peace which we can
Enjoy and
Reflect to others …
Responding calmly ro
Others will
Often bring
More peace .
November 4th, 2009 at 10:40 am
I totally agree with Penny. It is reflective of how strange a bunch we are. I got to hear Marshall Goldsmith speak recently and he echoed the same sentiments.
It seems the older I get-me too Jill-I really appreciate the slower pace and quieter smaller joys. Great music, time with friends,the blessings in the positive loving people in my life. REALLY illuminates the peace that only he can give.