2:189 – Quiet Can Be Wonderful

#faithbites #faithjourney quiet

Quiet is probally not a word most people would use to describe me. I’m loud. I’m obnoxious and love people.

As I get older, I feel the need for quiet time. There is so much noise and activity that it makes my anxiety go nuts, leads to irritability, and makes me grumpy. It doesn’t mean I don’t like people, but sometimes, a little quiet is what the doctor ordered.

While our faith is a faith of action, there is a time to rest, reflect, and have quiet time. Heck, even God rested on the Seventh Day.

Scripture

• Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him,  and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” – Mark 1:35-37
• He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10

Reflection

We start today with Jesus, who often serves as our role model, needing his own quiet time. Even though everyone is looking for him, he needs space. I can’t imagine once his ministry got really going, how many people want him day and night. The demands on him, and even Jesus, needed personal time for reflection. Next we see that God tells us to be still. That God who is all powerful tells us to relax and be still. That is a way to reflect and take in the glory of God.

It’s hard to be quiet and rest. Right now I have my spouse talking to me, the kids talking to me and running amuck, everyone asking me questions, and all I want is some quiet. I love them dearly but just need some time to for Sol.

We all have those moments when we need to step away. The struggle is knowing how to strike the balance between being isolated (shutting out the world) and taking time for self care and reflection.

Charge

When you feel stressed, do you take a little time for reflection? Do you carve out 15 minutes for you? The challenge is to take the time for self-healing, and reflection.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for us being part of so many things. Like you, we need rest and quiet. Help us to not feel guilty in taking that time we need. Remind us that it is important for us to heal.and reflect like you. We love you and give you all the glory and thanks. In your name, Amen.