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If we are deeply in love with
someone, we do not need to cast around endlessly in search
of fresh things to say or do. We’re happy just to be
together. It is not so different in our relationship with
the Lord. It is a sign of maturity when we can hold this
intimate silence together, not only as individuals but also
as fellowships. Let’s be looking actively to put this into
practice! There is a
wealth of intimacy that is beyond words which the Lord so
enjoys sharing with us. So if we are aware that our inmost
being is crying out for this, the first thing is to
cooperate with this desire, because it is also His desire.
It is neither a weakness nor a luxury to seek to reach this
stillness of soul that enables us to tune in to the Still
Small Voice.
From a practical point of
view, most of us can’t just down tools at a moment’s notice
in order to spend extended times in silence in holy
pursuits, or to go for long walks in woods or along the
seashore – but there may well be more than we have realised
in this respect. Make us imaginative, Lord – and hungry! How
about suggesting holding extended periods of silence during
our fellowship meetings – or enjoying a silent meal, either
on your own or in the company of friends?
A ‘silent’ meal (or walk) is
an altogether different thing from one in which we do not
happen to say anything. Because our focus is on the Lord,
and on spiritual things, such times are often the perfect
opportunity for Him to reawaken long dormant senses and to
show us solutions to matters we have long been pondering.
Taking this thought a step
further, the pace we lead our lives at, and the places we go
to meet Him all play their part in making the Still Small
Voice more audible in our hearts. Places made holy by people
seeking God there; wild expanses, flowing water (yes,
showers and baths can work just as well and be much more
accessible than a remote waterfall!) – all these and more
can aid the ‘slow interior living’ that plays a vital part
in our quest for a deeper intimacy with the Lord. What
better way to turn empty loneliness into rich solitude?
For Reflection and Prayer
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Thank
You, Lord, that You reign in glorious splendour –
but also in the quietness of our hearts.
Make us hungry to seek You out in stillness – and
show us which people, places and situations
stimulate and refresh us – and also to recognise
those which hinder the flow of Your Holy Spirit. |
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