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“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” Mark 1:35 (ESV)

It is so quiet in my house; I could probably hear a pin drop. So unfamiliar compared to the noise cluttering my brain all day. Unknown territory for those who find comfort in keeping noise going. Not so easy to welcome when we stop hearing everything else.

Wonder why we so avoid quiet? Maybe we’ve just gotten used to the drone of computers, buzz of appliances and yes that ever present ding of our phone even when we’re home alone. But there’s something sacred, refreshing and yes inviting to be found even though we struggle through stillness.

Don’t know about you, but once I get over my initial void of chatter, quiet soothes me. My mind begins to slow and clear thinking settles me. The crazy rush of a busy day evaporates, and I find myself cherishing quiet more than I ever thought I would.

Crazy thing about still – it invites focus, concentration without pressure, deep thoughts that rise to the surface – all because quiet fills us.

Wonder if that’s why Jesus pulled Himself away from the crowds – those who loved Him and those who hated Him? Perhaps He too found focus and balance in the sweet stillness. Can’t imagine what it must have been like to walk from place to place. Teaching wherever an audience appeared. Healing even in the midst of crowds rushing through the streets. Leading a group so distinctly different yet divinely appointed.

Love the way Jesus stole away to welcome His Father into His stillness. No agenda. No impatience. No distractions – just simply filled. The world needed Him. Followers desperately required His leadership. Family missed Him. Many were sick. His time was short. An endless list of why urgency would be justified, het Jesus long for the pleasure and depth of being in His Father’s presence alone.

Wouldn’t we do well to follow in His example – to invite moments of quiet so we can clearly hear His voice? Note to self: forego the dishes in the sink, let go of the piles of mail waiting to be opened, release the urge to veg on tv or skim through tweets. Embrace rare moments of stillness and enjoy His presence filling us. Quiet never felt so good.

“Father there will always be something on our list to do, yet You long for us to gather at Your feet and release everything else. Teach us to cherish still and quiet so we can truly hear Your voice.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life