In all transparency, I’m not one of those pastors who can remember the exact reference of every Bible verse I have ever read. This particular aspect of my brain’s wiring is one that I’m working to correct, even as I know it might not occur this side of Glory. While I have long sought to write the words, “Be still, and know that I am God” upon my heart, it has taken longer than I want to admit for it to click exactly into place among the Psalms.
Many of us live frenetic lives. Even during those times when we are in a place of calm, most of us still have cares and concerns that weigh upon our hearts and minds, adding feelings of anxiety and dis-ease. In the midst of all that happens, God wants us to find moments of stillness. He wants us to remember that it is He Himself who brings us peace. In that stillness, our Creator will be exalted throughout the world, and in His protection we will all find rest.
At the start of Advent, there are two ways that I can choose to approach this season. I can give in to the sense of hurry that accompanies any family holiday, or I can seek to wait for moments of stillness and calm. When I am able to lean completely into the latter approach, I can see life through the lens of thanks and am able to acknowledge the blessings that appear in so many ways. This choice is not an easy one because distractions abound that continuously pull me away from those moments of stillness. Yet it is a choice I make because I want to live and wait with a heart full of thanks instead running on a frenetic treadmill, always moving while never getting anywhere.