I’ve had numerous conversations with several people this past week, each of whom struggled to make sense of their present life. In various forms, disappointment, hurt, unforgiveness, sadness, fear, and anger permeated their tone of voice and demeanor. For most, the desire to hear God’s still small voice was the priority, even if they wouldn’t have described themselves in that way.
I don’t believe this small group of people is the exception to our current collective state of being. As I listened, and in some cases prayed with them, I was reminded again that the greatest gift I could give was to keep my mouth shut, unless specifically asked for my discernment or insight.
Maybe you are one of those who struggle in this present moment . . . one who longs for a deep sense of inner peace, or a hope for healing and restoration of your physical body or your emotions. Maybe you long for more loving relationships in your family, or with friends.
Most of the time the first thing I do is encourage Christians [and yes, remind myself] to get into Scripture for wisdom, solace, and direction. Apart from that, I turn to the plentiful resources available to us that have stood the test of time.
Less seems more at the moment so I offer you the following quotes. Pick one and ponder it. Allow the words and meaning to sink into your heart, linger in your spirit and stir your thoughts and imagination. A simple exercise for today or this next week, but maybe one that will help you on your journey.
“Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer! From the ends of the earth, I call; my heart grows faint. Raise me up, set me on a rock, for you are my refuge, a tower of strength against the foe. Let me dwell in your tent forever, take refuge in the shelter of your wings.” [Psalms 61:2-5]
“If I am incapable of washing dishes joyfully, if I want to finish them quickly so I can go and have dessert, I will be equally incapable of enjoying my dessert. With the fork in my hand, I will be thinking about what to do next, and the texture and flavor of the dessert, together with the pleasure of eating it, will be lost. I will always be dragged into the future, never able to live in the present moment.” [Thich Nhat Hanh]
“Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.” [James Baldwin]
