8. PEACEFULLY HUSH

Wednesday, December 8th
(MOUTH)

God is our refuge and strength,
    a very present help in trouble.
 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
    though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
    though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

Be still, and know that I am God!
    I am exalted among the nations,
    I am exalted in the earth.”
The Lord of hosts is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11(NRSV)

But the Lord is in his holy temple;
    let all the earth keep silence before him!
Habakkuk 2:20 (NRSV)

Being quiet means that you do not waste time, energy, and thoughts on meaningless matters. It means inner peace, serenity, and tranquility. ~ Remez Sasson.

Speak only if it improves upon the silence.  ~ Gandhi

Today’s Advent invitation is to be mindful of our words, or rather, to be mindful of keeping silent communion with God whenever possible. As we go about our day, let’s be attentive to keeping our mouths closed when we can; to refrain from any needless or noisy words. May spending our day a little more quietly foster more reverence, gentleness, and peacefulness in our souls. May stilling our mouths and our souls create more space for God to move, more space for us to notice. May silencing our words and thoughts in our prayer time enable us to fully listen and simply abide in the loving presence of God.

Hush. How might your reverent silence help you to hear God? How might your quiet spirit radiate peace to others?

Prayer:

Keep me mindful, God…

of those times when I come to you
only to fill the quiet spaces
with rote and meaningless prayers.

of those times when I ask of you
only my own questions and requests,
with words I deem important.

of those times when I lament to you
only my troubles, wounds or fears,
without pausing for your peace.

Silence my soul, God…

in those times when you are waiting
to share your good word with me
if only I would silence mine.

in those times when you are hoping
to embrace me with your peace
if only I would be still.

in those times when you are ready
to inspire my reverence and awe…
if only I would hush.
(KLW)

Photo by Amy Tran on Unsplash
Bible verses found at https://www.biblegateway.com/