Busy, Busy

"Being still is seen as an interruption instead of an invitation."

I just read this in an article this morning and it made me wonder how many times I get so busy doing things that it becomes the 'norm'. I get unnerved when I find myself with a few hours of quiet time. I realize that it's because I've become so accustomed to the noise in the office and the noise on the streets, and the noise of my life--that when it gets quiet in my apartment I don't know how to function.

I usually turn on the t.v. in one room and a radio in the other to fill the silence with something. Noise. Anything. I realize right now that I've become this way because I've lost my appreciation for quiet time.

When I was taking care of my mom and it was just she and I in the house, it was quiet. I'd read a little, talk a little, then just relax and do nothing for a little. It was easy to calm down and enjoy the silence because it was a normal thing to do. Where did my respect for the quiet time go? Have I become too consumed with being busy, that any time that is not occupied with something, I get nervous?

That's not good. I can name at least 5 people who would give an arm or leg to have some 'me time.' I'm reminded now about something that came to me while I was praying a few years go. I wanted to call and speak to somebody to pass the quietness, but the people who had the time to talk were the ones I didn't really want to talk to, and those who I wanted to talk to weren't available. Just before anxiety was about to overwhelm me with boredom, a quiet voice I heard in my spirit said, 'talk to Me.' I knew instantly it was the voice of the Lord calling.

I took some time to just sit and relax. tried my best to clear my mind of all thoughts and I listened to the quietness of the moment. And though it seemed to be a very long time to just sit and listen, it was probably only about 30 minutes. I found myself having the time to just talk to God. To ask His opinion on things I was thinking of. Talk about the things I was worried or afraid of. I didn't hear an audible voice, but I remember feeling refreshed. Feeling a sense of peace that my soul really needed.

What I need now is that same refreshing. That same renewing sense of calm and assurance that only God can give. Thinking about all of this makes me appreciate the quiet time I find this week at the hotel. I realize this is my time to contemplate the thoughts that flood my mind and steal my peace. And to be reminded that this invitation I have to rejuvenate myself is a gift that I should enjoy. Perhaps this is yet another appointed moment to talk to God and let Him speak while I stop the noise making and just listen. Perhaps this is yet another opportunity that I am being afforded to sit and rest. I think I'll do it.

When you can, take some time out to let God refresh you too. Accept any invitation for quiet time you get, and relax a little. All I can say now is, Speak Lord.