We are fortunate to live on property with a large backyard on approximately 1.75 acres. It is not a pastureland, but for inside the city, it is large enough for us. It is plenty to mow in the summertime. On some mornings, I enjoy coffee on the back porch swing watching and listening to the morning sounds. There are plenty of squirrels chasing one another through the trees. There is an occasional bunny or two roaming the edges of the woods. And of course, the countless birds. Being inside the city there are always cars passing on the streets that surround us. However, it is nice to listen to nature.
I must admit I could do this every morning if the weather and schedules permitted. You see I have to stop long enough to make time for this moment. Even then, I need to quiet my mind long enough to enjoy and listen. This reminds me I am too busy to enjoy this simple pleasure.
There is so much rhetoric in our daily lives today. Between the many responsibilities and daily schedules, there seems to be too much distraction and chaos. We all can do a better job at arranging our schedules. I am often reminded of the numerous ways to organize my calendar, and daily to-do lists for better efficiency. But why? What motivation will cause me to change so much for something so little? It depends on perspective.
When I was younger, I thought I had all the time in the world to tackle daily obligations. Little did I understand about “adulting” and family and job responsibilities. The same is true for my spiritual life. We all have learned the necessity of a daily time alone with God. We often call this time a “quiet time.” I never realized how important this time was for my spiritual health. If I am not aware, this can easily be pushed out of the daily routine.
Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still and know that I am God.” It is a familiar verse about trust and dependence. From my perspective, it is a reminder to take a step toward God. God is always present and available. I need to be still and listen, but I must take the initiative. I must be still and grasp the work of God.
The overwhelming sounds of our daily lives can cause a lack of hearing. I thought growing older caused my hearing loss, but I am learning it depends on what I am listening to that determines what I hear. I can easily get distracted. I am pushed to go faster and do more. I am in control of what I hear.
The beginning of Psalm 46 gives me a clear picture of motivation to listen. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.”
When I have lost the ability to hear from God, it is usually because I am too busy with the distractions of this world. I become hard of hearing. I understand I must stop and listen to the right message. My God IS my refuge and strength. All it takes for me is to be available to sit and listen. My God is the only one I need to hear.
One Response
So very much true and very well said.