The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. (Exodus 14:14)

“There is nothing so much like God in all the universe as silence.” Meister Eckhart

The all-consuming challenges of our Covid year have left many of us digging deep into the dark recesses of our souls and craving the reassurance of God’s Word and the healing balm of the Holy Spirit. Sadly, a discerning patience has too often been forfeited by the rigors of masking and social distancing. The sense of uncertainty and loss has left many of us adrift and frantically reaching for any handy distraction that can somehow numb the ever-present sadness and worry. 

How often do extreme stresses drive us to temporary and self-serving solutions? Why do we so quickly forget the ever-vigilant love and patience of our God? Too often the distractions of our world drown out the incarnate mystery of God’s presence and numb us to his enduring love. How can we begin to do less but trust more? How can we more faithfully and reliably seek out a sanctifying silence in the bustle of our lives? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, give us a discerning heart to hear the wisdom of your silence. Give us the confidence to step outside of the world’s chaotic din and know with deep certitude that God is always at work in the darkness. Help us remain ever-attentive to the workings of the Holy Spirit and may we rest in silent prayer and open-hearted listening, reaffirming always the consolations of God’s grace and mercy.