Ash Wednesday begins the Christian celebration of Lent. Forty days of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to prepare believers for the celebration of Easter. A part of Lent is the call to quiet and reflection. A call to still ourselves and consider our faith lives. We cease searching and striving for the external markers of success and fulfillment and settle in to listen to what the still, small voice of God is saying in our lives and in our hearts. It’s an opportunity to ask ourselves: Am I able to hear the voice of God?
Our lives are filled with noise. From our televisions and computers, tablets, phones and radios, even some gas pumps feature built-in speakers and screens for advertisement. And it’s not just media. Our lives are packed to the brim with things that require attention. In our facilities, monitors are always flashing, often beeping. Residents call out for assistance or need comfort. Calls have to be made. Emails must be answered. Codes, sirens and call lights all require immediate action. While our faith affirms that God is in all of these things, Lent still calls us away.
Lent calls us to our inner room. To an extra moment of quiet in the car or our office. To linger in the chapel. To wander in the woods. To soften our hearts and listen for the voice of God. The still, small voice that whispers and waits inside of us. Calling us to return. Calling us to faithfulness. Calling us to begin our Lenten journey back home to the God who loves us. How can you make space in your days this Lent to hear the still, small voice of God in your heart?
Age 6: I’ve learned that you can’t hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
Age 9: I’ve learned that when I wave to people in the country, they stop what they are doing and wave back.