Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Listening to Lent

I read recently, "Silence frees us from the need to control others. One reason we can hardly bear to remain silent is that it makes us feel so helpless. We are accustomed to relying upon words to manage and control others. A frantic stream of words flows from us in an attempt to straighten others out. We want so desperately for them to agree with us, to see things our way. We evaluate people, judge people, condemn people. We devour people with our words. Silence is one of the deepest Disciplines of the Spirit simply because it puts the stopper on that." (From Freedom of Simplicity by Richard J. Foster)

As I consider this and consider the Holy Season of Lent, I proceed in this blog with caution--not wanting to simply add my voice to an already loud and cluttered world. My hope is that followers of Jesus Christ will take some time with the Creator. Slow down. Stop. Listen long enough to hear God whisper. I hope that you will read the scriptures listed. Reflect on them and hear what God has for you. Then, and only then, do I invite you to read how I have heard our God speak on this day.

Throughout Lent, I will use Listening to Lent by Robert C. Hereth as a guide for Scripture reading.


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