Recently I traveled to the Monastery at St. Gertrude's outside of Cottonwood, Idaho, for a week long silent retreat. That's right, an entire week of silence. No talking! No telephones, no computer, no meetings or appointments. Worship and meals, optional. An hour each day with a Spiritual Director, also optional.
Now I can hear some people saying, in a horrified tone of voice, "Oh my God, what did you do with all that time?" That's just the point! Oh, my God! Our world, our lives have become so busy, so noisy, so full of activity that we've forgotten how to enter into the silence of God. We no longer value silence as a way of seeking his guidance, listening for His voice, resting in His presence.
Oh, My God! I had oceans of time to gaze uninterrupted at the beauty surrounding me; more than one awesome sunrise, deer crossing the meadow, ground fog blanketing the prairie, sunshine, clouds and snow fall. In that sacred silence, I learned to rest in His presence. My heart began to open more fully and I could see and hear Him more clearly.
Take a break from the fast lane. Put aside your Day Timer. Turn off the phones and computer. Create for yourself a silent time every day. Pray and wait on God. Come to the quiet and rest in His presence.
